A 62-year-old estate agent, Sulaimon Gbajabiamila, was on Monday brought before a Yaba Chief Magistrates’ Court in Lagos over alleged N30 million property sales fraud.

The defendant is facing a two-count charge of obtaining money under false pretence and stealing. He, however, pleaded not guilty to the charges.

Police Prosecutor, Rita Momah, told the court that the defendant committed the offences at No. 20, Bankole Olemoh Street, in Surulere area of Lagos.

She told the court that the defendant had acted as the complainant, Lateef Adeyemo’s agent in the sale of his two-bedroom apartment but converted the N30 million proceeds from the sale to his personal use.

According to Ms Momah, the offences contravene Sections 314 and 287 of the Criminal Laws of Lagos State, 2015 (Revised).

Section 314 is punishable by 15 years imprisonment for obtaining by under pretence while 287 stipulates three years imprisonment for the offence of stealing for offenders convicted of the charges.

The Chief Magistrate, Adeola Adedayo, admitted the defendant to bail in the sum of N5 million, with two responsible sureties in like sum.

She said that the sureties must submit copies of their National Identification Number (NIN) and Lagos State Residents Registration Agency (LASRRA) card.

Mrs Adedayo further said that one of the sureties must be a religious or community leader and that both must reside within the court’s jurisdiction.

The Chief Magistrate, thereafter, adjourned the case till July 25 for mention.

(NAN)