
A 43-year-old landlord, Afeez Abimbola Bello, has been remanded at the Ikoyi Correctional Facility by a Lagos Magistrate’s Court over allegations of attempting to forcefully repossess a duplex he reportedly sold for ₦60 million to Adewale Hamzat Sanni.
According to court documents, Bello was accused of unlawfully entering the property at 12 Abimbola Crescent, Oke Ira Nla, Mashil Estate, Badore, Ajah, Lagos, and causing damage to the entrance door.
The case began after the buyer, Sanni, filed a petition, alleging that Bello claimed to have sold the property to another individual, identified as Afeez Olowo, before selling it to him. Despite providing valid documentation and already moving into the duplex, Sanni reported being threatened by Bello and alleged gang members.
Investigations conducted by the Inspector General of Police’s Monitoring Unit revealed further accusations of fraud, property damage, threats to life, and unlawful entry. Police prosecutor Ishola Samuel told the court that the offences occurred on May 7 and September 8, 2024, and are punishable under Sections 406, 326, 215, 52, and 168 of the Lagos State Criminal Law, 2015.
Bello pleaded not guilty to the six charges, which included claims that he fraudulently attempted to reclaim the property by falsely asserting it was sold to an imposter. One charge detailed Bello’s alleged threat to Sanni’s life, with the use of unlawful gangs, for asserting his right to the property.
Chief Magistrate M. Owunmi granted the defendant bail set at ₦100 million with three sureties in like sum. As part of the conditions, half of the bail amount must be deposited with the court registrar.
The court adjourned the case until February 6, 2025, for mention. Until the bail conditions are fulfilled, Bello will remain in custody.
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