The Nigeria Police Force has arraigned three suspects over an alleged N190 million property scam, marking a significant development in the fight against financial fraud in the Federal Capital Territory. The suspects—Tolulope Aiyetan, Umma Ibrahim, and Abdulbaki Abdulbaki—were charged with obtaining property by false pretense after allegedly defrauding businessman Idris Ahmed Tijjani. The case, filed under charge number CR/168/2026 on April 40, 2026, was brought by Adama Musa, a Chief Superintendent of Police in the Legal and Prosecution Section of the Criminal Investigation Department, FCT Command. The prosecution alleges that the trio conspired to deceive Tijjani by presenting a fake property deal, violating Section 8(a) of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Related Offences Act 2006.
During the arraignment, the three suspects pleaded not guilty to the two-count charge. They were granted bail in the sum of N10 million, allowing them to remain free pending further court proceedings. The trial is expected to feature testimony from Idris Ahmed Tijjani, who will detail how he was misled into paying for a property that never existed. In addition to the complainant, three other witnesses have been scheduled to appear in court to support the prosecution’s case.
The police have listed 10 exhibits to be presented as evidence, including statements from the suspects and witnesses, compliance forms, a memorandum of deposit, and official documents from Jaiz Bank and Xenius Global Nig. Ltd. Among the exhibits is a letter from Jaiz Bank to Tijjani dated June 24, 2024, and a demand notice dated January 5, 2024. Other key documents include a deed of assignment between Tolulope Aiyetan and Tijjani, a letter from Avert Chambers to the Consumer Protection Department, and proof of payment of N150 million by the complainant. These materials are expected to form the core of the prosecution’s argument that the suspects acted with premeditation and intent to defraud.
The case highlights the growing sophistication of property-related scams in Nigeria, where criminals often use fake documents and bank statements to lure victims. The involvement of a registered company, Xenius Global Nig. Ltd., and a financial institution, Jaiz Bank, adds complexity to the investigation. While the suspects deny wrongdoing, the evidence presented suggests a well-orchestrated fraud targeting unsuspecting individuals seeking real estate investments.
As the trial progresses, the case will serve as a warning to Nigerians about the risks of property scams and the importance of due diligence. The outcome could set a precedent for how similar cases are handled in the future, reinforcing the need for stronger oversight in real estate transactions.
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