Salesgirl Remanded for Alleged ₦5.2m Theft and Calling Couple ‘Ritualists’

The Eti-Osa Chief Magistrate’s Court in Lagos on Wednesday ordered the remand of a 23-year-old salesgirl, Nifemi Friday, at the Kirikiri Correctional Centre over allegations of stealing goods worth N5,200,000 and accusing a couple of being “ritualists.”

Friday is facing charges of stealing and defamation of character.

Magistrate T. F. Oyaniyi issued the remand order after the defendant pleaded not guilty to the charges brought against her by the police.

In case number ET/C/18/2025, the police accused the defendant, Nifemi Friday, of stealing goods from a mall and falsely labeling businessman Lateef Lawal and his wife as ritualists.

Prosecutor Inspector Adeleye Ganiu, from the Ogombo Police Division in Lagos, informed the court that the alleged offences took place on December 23, 2024, at approximately 1:00 p.m. at Obas Mall, Okun Ajah, in Eti-Osa, Lagos State.

Ganiu stated that, in addition to the alleged theft, the defendant’s actions could potentially incite a breach of public peace. He further alleged that Friday defamed the complainant by sharing voice notes on social media in which she called Lawal and his wife “ritualists.”

The prosecutor stated that the alleged offences violated Sections 287 and 168 (d) of the Lagos State Criminal Laws of 2015.

Despite the charges, the defendant pleaded not guilty.

After hearing an oral bail application from the defense counsel, Magistrate Oyaniyi granted bail to Friday in the sum of N500,000, requiring two responsible sureties of the same amount.

Until she meets her bail conditions, the magistrate ordered her remand at Kirikiri Correctional Centre.

The case has been adjourned to March 26, 2025, for mention.