A Magistrate Court in Osogbo has ordered the remand of one Oruhu Odey, accused of impersonating a lawyer, forging the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) seal, and defrauding a businessman of ₦18.5 million.
Odey, who appeared without legal representation, was arraigned on four counts of impersonation, fraud, stealing, and forgery.
Police prosecutor, Saheed Anifowose, told the court that between December 2020 and May 2021, Odey posed as a lawyer to trick a victim into paying for two houses at Oroki Estate in Osogbo.
According to the prosecutor, the defendant not only obtained millions under false pretence but also forged an NBA stamp and seal, attaching them to a petition addressed to the Ogun State Commissioner of Police.
He said the offences contravened Sections 109, 419, and 383, and were punishable under Section 390(9) of the Criminal Code, Laws of Osun State.
Odey pleaded not guilty, but Magistrate Dr. Segun Ayilara ordered his remand at the Ilesa Correctional Centre, adjourning the case until 21 October for mention.
The rise of fake lawyers across Nigeria has prompted the NBA to tighten security features on its official seal, a move aimed at curbing forgery and protecting the integrity of legal practice.
