Hajj: Travel agent arraigned over alleged N10.6 million Saudi Arabia visa fraud

A 36-year-old travel agent, Tijani Abdulroqeeb on Thursday appeared before an Iyaganku Chief Magistrates’ Court in Ibadan, Oyo State, over alleged N10.6 million visa fraud.
Abdulroqeeb, who resides at the Boluwaji area of Ibadan, is standing trial on a four-count charge of conspiracy, fraud, stealing and breach of peace.
He, however, pleaded not guilty to the charges.
The prosecutor, ASP Sikiru Ibrahim, told the court that the defendant committed the offences with others now at large, in December 2025 at Ibadan.
Mr Ibrahim alleged that the defendant obtained the sum of N10.6 million from a complainant, Dr Taofeek Abdullah, to facilitate a Mecca visa for some 2026 pilgrims
He alleged that the defendant failed to secure the visas, but converted the money to his personal use.
The prosecutor alleged that the defendant also conducted himself in a manner likely to breach public peace when he was asked to provide the visas or refund the money but refused to comply.
The offences contravene the provisions of sections 249 (d), 390 (9), 419 and 516 of the Criminal Law of Oyo State, 2000.
The Magistrate, M. Mudashiru, granted the defendant bail in the sum of five million naira, with two sureties in like sum.
The court ordered that one of the sureties must be a blood relative of the defendant, while the other surety must provide evidence of three years tax clearance to the state government.
He adjourned the case until May 19, for mention.
(NAN)
We have recently deactivated our website's comment provider in favour of other channels of distribution and commentary. We encourage you to join the conversation on our stories via our Facebook, Twitter and other social media pages.
More from Peoples Gazette

Agriculture
FG tasks ECOWAS on leveraging financing strategies for agroecology
The federal government has urged stakeholders in the agriculture and finance sectors in the West Africa region to leverage financing strategies to enhance agroecology practices

Politics
Katsina youths pledge to deliver over 2 million votes to Atiku
“Katsina State is Atiku’s political base because it is his second home.”

States
Ex-NOSDRA director advises young civil servants on personal development
Mr Nkangwung stated, “This life is not about what you get now. Invest in yourself and be patient with God.”

Lagos
Group advocates coordinated conservation framework for Badagry’s heritage
Mr Ijinla said heritage conservation and tourism could complement each other when properly planned and managed.

World
British singer Ed Sheeran cries on stage over tour fallout
Mr Sheeran described the situation in the region as a “systemic injustice” in the West Bank.

Sport
NPFL: Pillars thrash Doma United 4-1 in Kano
Speaking after the match, Pillars coach, Daniel Ogunmodede, commended his players for their performance.

Sport
Fortune FA remain unbeaten as Idowu U-16 League records 19 goals
The victory lifted Heritage out of the relegation zone and boosted their hopes of turning around their campaign.

Agriculture
Kwara targets 1,000 cattle for artificial insemination Pub
The Director of TGB Farms, Ishola Peace, commended the government for extending the programme to the farmers.





