EFCC Arraigns Yusuf Oyepeju for N13.6m Property Fraud

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) arraigned Yusuf Oyepeju before Justice Olusola Adetujoye of the Oyo State High Court in Ibadan on charges of property fraud totaling N13,697,900.00. Oyepeju, along with his companies, Alwajeez International Nigeria Limited and AIN Homes and Property Limited, faced six counts including forgery, uttering of documents, stealing by conversion, and obtaining money under false pretence.

The charges stemmed from allegations that Oyepeju defrauded Islamic cleric Fasasi Bayonle, whom he met in a WhatsApp group for Islamic teachings. Between February and August 2020, Oyepeju allegedly converted N8,697,900.00 belonging to Bayonle for personal use.

Oyepeju pleaded "not guilty" and was remanded in Agodi Correctional Centre after the prosecution requested a trial date. His defense counsel indicated that a bail application had been filed.

The fraudulent activities reportedly began in 2018 when Oyepeju sought financial assistance from Bayonle for accommodation.