The police on Wednesday dragged a 35-year-old man, Ganiyu Ayuba, before an Iyaganku Chief Magistrates’ court, in Ibadan, Oyo State, for allegedly defrauding a rice vendor N17.8 million.

The defendant who resides at Kishi Town in  Ibadan, was charged on two counts bordering on fraud and stealing.

He, however, pleaded not guilty to the charges.

The prosecutor, ASP Sikiru Ibrahim, alleged that the defendant committed the offences on December 15, 2025.

He alleged that the defendant obtained the sum of N17.8 million from the complainant, Salahudeem Lateef, under the pretence of selling to 400 bags of rice.

The police said the defendant knew that his representation to the complainant was false, as he failed to supply the rice.

The prosecution alleged that the defendant stole the money from the complainant and fraudulently converted same to his own use.

He said that the defendant was consequently, arrested following police investigation.

The offences contravene the provisions of Section 390 (9) and 419 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 held that one of the sureties must be a blood relative of the defendant, while the second surety must have three years tax clearance.

He adjourned the case until June 23, for hearing. (NAN)