Social Media Influencer Remanded Over Alleged N110m Fraud

The Lagos Special Offences Court, Ikeja, has remanded a social media influencer, Portia Emilia, in prison, over an alleged fraud of N110m.

Emilia was arraigned by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission alongside her company, Savanah Crest Investment Limited.

The defendants, who were arraigned before Justice Abike Fadipe, are facing six counts bordering on conspiracy, obtaining by false pretences and stealing.

The EFCC alleged that the offences were committed in 2018 in Lagos.

The commission said the defendants conspired among themselves and stole the sum of N50m.

The charges read in part, “That you, Portia Anthony Emilia, and Savanah Crest Investment Limited, with intent to defraud, dishonestly stole and converted to your use the sum of N50m.”

The offences are contrary to and punishable under sections 411, 287 (5) of the Criminal Law of Lagos State.

Emilia pleaded not guilty to the charges.

Justice Fadipe granted the defendant bail in the sum of N10m with a surety who must be a relative and have a bank insurance of N10m.

Consequently, the judge remanded the defendant in a custodial centre pending the perfection of her bail conditions.

The case was adjourned till September 23.