A 53-year-old businessman, King Dauda, was arraigned before a Kado Grade 1 Area Court in Abuja for allegedly stealing N92,300 from a sex worker. The defendant, who resides at EFAB Global Estate, Life Camp, was charged by the police with theft. Dauda, however, pleaded not guilty to the charge.
The Prosecution Counsel, Stanley Nwafoaku, told the court that Bolaji Olufumi of Prosper Road Area 3, Abuja, reported the matter at Life Camp Police Station on May 26 at about 9:05 a.m. The complainant alleged that on May 20, the defendant invited her to his residence located at EFAB Estate. After having intercourse with her, he took her purse containing the sum of N92,300.
Efforts made by Olufumi to recover the purse and money from the defendant proved abortive. The offence contravenes the provisions of Section 288 of the Penal Code Law.
During the court hearing, the defendant’s lawyer, Charity Nwosu, made an oral bail application, citing Section 36 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Section 158 of Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA), 2015. Nwosu assured the court that the defendant would not jump bail if granted.
The Judge, Muhammed Wakili, granted the defendant bail in the sum of N100,000 and one surety in like sum. The surety must provide a Bank Verification Number (BVN) print out, recent passport photograph, and a valid identification card, which must be verified by the court registrar. The judge, thereafter, adjourned the case till June 15 for hearing.
It is important to note that the act of stealing from anyone is a violation of their human rights. It is important that everyone respects the rights of others to own property, and people should not resort to stealing as a means of solving their financial problems. If you or someone you know is having thoughts of self-harm, please call a suicide prevention helpline or seek professional help immediately.