A Benue businesswoman, Juliana Tergema, has been arraigned over alleged conversion of N17.8 million meant to supply 300 bags of locust beans.
A 28-year-old businesswoman, Juliana Tergema, on Thursday appeared before a Makurdi Magistrates’ Court in Benue State over an alleged conversion of N17.8 million entrusted to her for the supply of locust beans.
Tergema, a resident of Ugba in Logo Local Government Area, was charged with criminal breach of trust and cheating.
Police prosecutor, Insp. Jonah Uletu, told the court that the complainant, Mrs. Eucharia Nworah, reported the matter at the Area Command Headquarters, Makurdi, on June 10, 2026.
According to the prosecutor, Nworah transferred N17.8 million to Tergema’s account for the supply of 300 bags of locust beans.
Uletu alleged that the defendant instead converted the money to personal use and subsequently failed to provide the goods or refund the money despite efforts by the complainant to recover the funds.
The prosecutor said the alleged offences contravened Sections 313 and 324 of the Penal Code Law of Benue, 2004.
He further told the court that Tergema was arrested during police investigations and allegedly admitted committing the offence.
However, when the charges were read to her in court, Tergema pleaded not guilty.
Uletu informed the court that investigations were still ongoing and requested an adjournment to enable the police to conclude their investigation.
Magistrate Mr. Uger Asemapenda granted the defendant bail in the sum of N1 million with one surety in like sum.
The magistrate adjourned the case until October 15, 2026, for further hearing.
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