Self-Proclaimed Native Doctor Jailed 31 Years for N5 Million Fraud in Nigeria

A state high court in Onitsha, Anambra State, has sentenced Akinyola Ogundale, who claimed to be a native doctor, to 31 years imprisonment for defrauding a woman through false pretenses and fraudulent conversion. Justice D.A. Onyefulu found Ogundale guilty of exploiting the victim, Juliet Onabe, through spiritual and psychological intimidation.

The fraud occurred in July 2024 when Ogundale encountered Onabe, who was traveling for business. He falsely presented himself as a native doctor capable of performing rituals to make her wealthy. The court heard that through threats, intimidation, and spiritual manipulation, Ogundale obtained over N5 million from Onabe and her relatives. The prosecution presented evidence, including bank transfer records and statements, demonstrating that Onabe was repeatedly threatened with death if she failed to provide more money and had to borrow funds due to the sustained pressure.

During the trial, two witnesses testified, and documentary evidence was tendered. Ogundale's extra-judicial statement, admitting to receiving money for spiritual services, was also presented. The court learned that Ogundale compelled the victim to transfer money from her accounts and took cash intended for her business. Midway through the trial, Ogundale absconded after being granted bail. However, the court continued proceedings in absentia, as per the Administration of Criminal Justice Law, after his refusal to appear.

Justice Onyefulu convicted Ogundale after the prosecution proved its case beyond reasonable doubt. He received a 21-year sentence for obtaining money by false pretense and a 10-year sentence for fraudulent conversion. The offenses contravene sections of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act and the Criminal Code Law of Anambra State.

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Akin, I will bring the money.