On September 24, 2026, Funke Femiloba, a 31-year-old woman, was brought before a Magistrate Court in Lagos by the police. She is facing four counts of conspiracy, impersonation, conduct likely to cause a breach of the peace, and obtaining money by false pretences. According to the police, Femiloba's alleged crimes took place in Ikeja, Lagos, sometime in September 2026. The details of the charges were outlined in a document marked MIK/P/53/26.
The police alleged that Femiloba conspired with others, who are currently at large, to obtain money by false pretences. This offence is said to be contrary to Section 411 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State 2015. The prosecution also claimed that Femiloba falsely represented herself as a member of staff of OPay Digital Services Limited, knowing this representation to be false. This alleged offence is contrary to Section 78 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State 2015.
In addition to the impersonation and conspiracy charges, Femiloba and others at large are accused of conducting themselves in a manner likely to cause a breach of the peace. This was allegedly done by misleading members of the public. The police stated that this offence is contrary to Section 168(d) of the Criminal Law of Lagos State 2015. Furthermore, the prosecution alleged that Femiloba and others obtained money from members of the public, although the exact amount involved was not specified.
The fourth count of the charge states that the alleged offence of obtaining money by false pretences is punishable under Section 314 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State 2015. Following her arraignment, the court ordered that Femiloba be remanded in the custody of the Nigerian Correctional Service. This decision was made pending the hearing of the case. The court has adjourned the case until November 30, 2026, for further hearing.
The case has garnered significant attention due to the nature of the alleged crimes. Impersonation and obtaining money by false pretences are serious offences under Nigerian law. If convicted, Femiloba could face significant penalties. The police's actions demonstrate their efforts to combat financial crimes in Lagos. OPay Digital Services Limited, as a prominent financial services company, takes such allegations seriously.
The incident highlights the need for vigilance among the public when dealing with financial transactions. Members of the public are often advised to verify the identities of individuals claiming to represent financial institutions. This case serves as a reminder of the potential consequences of engaging in fraudulent activities. The Lagos State government has been working to strengthen its laws and enforcement mechanisms to address financial crimes.
As the case progresses, it will be essential to monitor the court's proceedings and any potential outcomes. The arraignment of Funke Femiloba marks the beginning of a legal process that will determine her culpability in the alleged crimes. The police and the court are expected to provide updates on the case as it unfolds.
Key points
- The police arraigned Funke Femiloba for allegedly impersonating an OPay staff member and obtaining money from the public under false pretences.
- The case has been adjourned until November 30, 2026, for further hearing.
- If convicted, Femiloba could face significant penalties under Nigerian law.
