A Kaduna court has arraigned a 38-year-old man for allegedly defrauding his brother of N4.8 million in a land deal, with the case set for hearing in May.
KADUNA, Nigeria – A 38-year-old man, Aaron James, has been arraigned before a Kaduna Magistrates’ Court over alleged fraud involving N4.8 million obtained from his brother under false pretences.
The defendant, a resident of Barnawa, is facing a two-count charge bordering on fraud and stealing, brought by the Nigeria Police Force.
Prosecuting counsel, Insp. Chidi Leo, told the court that the incident occurred in December 2025 at Bayan Dutse, Kaduna, where the defendant allegedly collected the sum from his older brother, identified as Nathan, on the promise of selling three plots of land.
According to the prosecution, the land transaction was never executed, as the defendant allegedly diverted the funds for personal use. Efforts by the complainant to recover the money were said to have failed.
James pleaded not guilty to the charges.
The offences are said to contravene Sections 217 and 309 of the Kaduna State Penal Code, 2017, which prescribe penalties for stealing and obtaining by false pretence, including custodial sentences.
Presiding Magistrate, Ibrahim Emmanuel, granted the defendant bail in the sum of N500,000, with two sureties in like sum.
The court ruled that the sureties must reside within its jurisdiction and provide evidence of tax payment to the Kaduna State Government.
The matter was adjourned until May 12, 2026, for hearing.
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