JAGISTS

Timothy Atolagbe, a 40-year-old man, was arraigned in Lagos State Magistrates’ Court on charges of defrauding students of approximately N9.8 million. The police allege that Atolagbe received N9,879,928 under false pretenses, promising to assist victims in securing student visas. He faces multiple charges, including obtaining money by false pretenses and is currently being held in custody pending further proceedings

This case highlights ongoing issues with fraudulent visa schemes targeting students seeking education abroad. Similar scams have been reported globally, where agents exploit the aspirations of international students, charging exorbitant fees for services that are often ineffective or non-existent

Atolagbe’s arraignment marks a significant step in addressing visa fraud in Nigeria, as authorities continue to crack down on such illegal activities. The court proceedings will determine the extent of his culpability and whether he will face a lengthy prison sentence if convicted

This incident serves as a cautionary tale for students and families looking to study abroad, emphasizing the importance of verifying the legitimacy of visa agents before making financial commitments.