By Chinyere Omeire
Lagos – A sales representative, Ekene Ejikeme, who allegedly absconded with his employer’s money and bags amounting to N1.8 million, on Tuesday appeared before an Igbosere Magistrates’ Court in Lagos.
Ejikeme was arraigned alongside 52-year-old Joseph Jiwuaku, who failed to produce his younger brother, accused of conspiring with Ejikeme to commit the offences five years ago.
Ejikeme and Jiwuaku, whose residential addresses were unknown, are facing a two-count charge of conspiracy and stealing.
The prosecutor, Sgt. Kingsley Jackson, submitted that the accused and others still at large conspired to steal the money and bags at noon on March 23, 2011, at Shop 129/130, Iworo, Balogun Market, Idumota on Lagos Island.
Jackson said that the accused stole N600,000 and ladies hand bags valued at N1.2 million, properties of Mrs Thelma Ngige.
The prosecutor said that the offences contravened Sections 285 and 409 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2011.
The accused, however, pleaded not guilty.
Magistrate B. A. Sonuga granted them bail in the sum of N500,000 with two sureties each.
He said that the sureties must be gainfully employed and show evidence of tax payment to the Lagos State Government.
Sonuga adjourned the case till Feb. 2 for mention.