The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arraigned a 19-year-old woman and her 21-year-old boyfriend over the alleged theft of ₦35.92 million from a woman who reportedly gave the younger woman a place to stay.
The defendants, Marian Elia, 19, and Izuchukwu Uzoma, 21, were arraigned before Justice C.A. Obiozor of the Federal High Court on a seven-count charge bordering on cybercrime, conspiracy and stealing.
The complainant, Mrs. Esther Ogbeifun, is based in Benin City, Edo State.
According to the allegations, Elia allegedly took advantage of her access to Ogbeifun’s mobile phones and banking details while staying in her home to facilitate unauthorised transfers of funds.
The money was allegedly moved into an account belonging to Uzoma, her boyfriend.
The EFCC’s case centres on the alleged use of the complainant’s financial information to divert millions of naira without her consent.
The defendants are facing seven counts relating to the alleged offences. The allegations have yet to be established in court.
The case highlights the potential financial risks associated with unauthorised access to banking information, particularly where personal relationships and trust are involved.
Both defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty by a court of competent jurisdiction.