Fake Prophetess Remanded Over Attempted Fraud

A suspected fake prophetess, Adunni Folani, 37, has been arrested by the police at Adeniji-Adele Division, Lagos State, southwest Nigeria over an alleged attempt to defraud.

She was arraigned before an Igbosere Magistrate’s Court on a count charge of attempt to commit felony to wit, obtaining money under false pretence by presenting herself as a messenger from God.

The police alleged in charge No. N/14/2012 that the accused was arrested following a complaint lodged by Olaniyi Olawale that he was scared when the accused on 29 March, 2012 at about 5 p.m. came to his shop at 72, Docemo Street, Lagos Island, to inform him that she had a message from God for him over an undisclosed problem.

He further stated that the accused directed him to buy coconuts, two big bottles of Eva water and to fetch water from Bar Beach for a sacrifice.

She allegedly promised to come back the following day. Following the report, the police mounted surveillance and arrested her when she came to meet her target as promised.

During interrogation, she allegedly admitted receiving a message from God for her victim, but when she was asked how she knew the complainant, she told the police that she saw him inside a commuter bus. When asked to relate part of the message from God, she could not explain.

She was arraigned in court for attempted fraud. The offence, Inspector Ikem Uko said is punishable under Section 21 of the Criminal Laws of Lagos State, 2011.

The accused pleaded not guilty to the charge and the presiding magistrate, Mrs. O. A. Ogunbowale, admitted her to bail in the sum of N50,000 with two sureties in like sum who must show proof of two years tax payment to the Lagos State government. She adjourned the matter till 22 May, 2012 for mention.

The defendant was moved to Kirikiri Prison when she could not perfect her bail conditions in good time.

—Paul Iyoghojie