Police Arrest Fake Spritualist Over Alleged N70m ‘Fraud’ Against Lagos Businessman
THECONSCIENCE NG reports that a self-proclaimed spiritualist, Alhaji Salihu, has been arrested by the police in Abuja for allegedly defrauding a Lagos-based businessman, Patrick Ogbonna, of N70 million. Salihu allegedly promised to use mystical powers to double the victim’s money.
According to reports, Salihu, who is said to be based in Adamawa State, conspired with an accomplice who posed as a police officer—identified as one Inspector Daniel—to convince Ogbonna of his supposed supernatural abilities to bring financial prosperity.
Ogbonna was reportedly persuaded to believe that the use of special perfumes and specific prayers could attract immense wealth. Convinced by the ruse, he allegedly transferred the N70 million in instalments to Salihu’s bank account, expecting the money to be doubled.
However, the supposed financial breakthrough never materialized, and the scheme eventually unraveled.
Ogbonna told investigators that Inspector Daniel persistently encouraged him to trust Salihu, claiming the spiritualist had successfully performed similar money-doubling rituals for others, especially involving the conversion of foreign currencies through spiritual means.
Suspicion arose when Salihu began demanding livestock—including goats and cattle—for ritual purposes. At that point, Ogbonna began requesting a refund, but the spiritualist reportedly refused to return the funds.
Frustrated by the failed promises and unreturned funds, Ogbonna filed a petition with the police headquarters in Abuja. This led to Salihu’s arrest.
Police sources said a court order was obtained to detain the suspect. Salihu reportedly attempted to secure his release by claiming health issues and seeking the intervention of some clerics. However, Ogbonna objected to the move, alleging the health claims were fabricated and insisting the suspect face prosecution.
The investigation is ongoing, and police say the suspect will be charged accordingly.
