A United Kingdom-based Nigerian, Emmanuel Opeyemi Makinde, has testified before the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, High Court in Abuja about a travel agent, Mr Waliyu Aderibigbe Shitta, who allegedly concealed documents to arrange a fake marriage for him in 2022. Makinde told Justice Ademuyiwa Oyeyipo that Shitta added a woman, Miss Dolapo Afusat Yusuf, to his visa application as his wife without his knowledge or consent. This allegedly facilitated her travel abroad using Makinde's identity.
According to Makinde, he submitted a Subject Access Request to the Home Office on March 26, 2024, and received records 30 days later, revealing the fake marriage. He stated that he had never met or spoken to Dolapo Afusat Yusuf and had zero knowledge of her until the government document forced her name into his life. Makinde's testimony described how Shitta sent him only two PDF documents, omitting the crucial student visa application form, creating a false impression of transparency.
Makinde further testified that on May 17, 2024, his solicitor attempted to submit a UK visa application for his actual wife, but it was refused on June 7, 2024, due to existing records showing Makinde as legally married in the UK. An administrative review was filed on June 22, 2024, but Makinde incurred significant costs and suffered from depression. On August 8, 2024, the UK government confirmed Shitta's actions in writing, stating that the defendant's deception led to Makinde's visa cancellation.
The complainant stated that Shitta maliciously ticked a declaration in his name before the British Government, claiming that Makinde was personally completing and submitting the application himself. This declaration was specific and mandatory, and Makinde argued that Shitta's actions without his knowledge or authority constituted a serious offense. Makinde had previously informed Shitta that his email was wiped, and Shitta claimed that the document had been deleted due to his numerous dealings.
Makinde's testimony included details of his interactions with Shitta and his pastor, who initially helped facilitate communication between them. However, upon discovering the Home Office's request for a divorce certificate relating to an alleged previous marriage, Makinde informed his pastor of the consequences, but no action was taken. Instead, Shitta blocked Makinde after viewing the Home Office correspondence.
The trial has been adjourned to November 11, 2026, as the court continues to hear evidence. Makinde's case highlights the risks of fraudulent activities in the travel and visa application process. The alleged actions of Shitta have had severe consequences for Makinde, affecting his personal life and finances.
The case raises concerns about the regulation of travel agents and their responsibilities when handling clients' personal documents and information. As the trial progresses, it will be essential to examine the extent of Shitta's involvement in similar cases and the measures in place to prevent such fraudulent activities in the future.
Key points
- Travel agent accused of concealing documents to arrange fake marriage
- UK-based Nigerian tells court of alleged fraud and its consequences
- Trial adjourned to November 11, 2026, to continue hearing evidence
