An Eti-Osa Chief Magistrate’s Court in Lagos has ordered the remand of a 23-year-old salesgirl, Nifemi Friday, at the Kirikiri Correctional Centre for allegedly stealing goods worth N5.2 million and defaming a couple by calling them “ritualists.”
Friday is facing two charges—stealing and defamation of character—as outlined in charge ET/C/18/2025 filed by the police.
According to the prosecutor, Inspector Adeleye Ganiu, the defendant allegedly committed the offences on December 23, 2024, at Obas Mall, Okun Ajah, Eti-Osa, Lagos State.
She is accused of:
- Stealing goods worth N5,200,000 from the mall
- Defaming businessman Lateef Lawal and his wife by circulating voice notes on social media, accusing them of being ritualists
- Acting in a manner likely to cause a breach of public peace
The charges contravene Sections 287 and 168(d) of the Criminal Laws of Lagos State, 2015.
During the hearing, Friday pleaded not guilty to both charges.
Her defense counsel filed an oral bail application, which was granted by Magistrate T.F. Oyaniyi under the following conditions:
- N500,000 bail
- Two responsible sureties in like sum
However, until she meets her bail conditions, Friday will remain in Kirikiri Correctional Centre.
The case has been adjourned to March 26, 2025, for mention.
