ILORIN, Nigeria – The Kwara State Police Command has arrested Adeola Badru, a 43-year-old man, for allegedly defrauding a political appointment hopeful of ₦300 million by falsely promising a federal board position.
The arrest was announced by Commissioner of Police, CP Adekimi Ojo, during a press briefing held on Thursday in Ilorin.
According to police reports, Joseph Olugbenga, the victim, was deceived in 2023 when Badru posed as a well-connected politician. He allegedly promised Olugbenga a spot on the board of the South West Development Commission in exchange for a large sum of money.
Olugbenga, believing the offer to be genuine, made multiple payments totaling ₦300 million. After receiving the funds, Badru reportedly fled to Ibadan, Oyo State, and cut off all communication with the victim.
Following a formal petition in February 2023, the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) launched an investigation and successfully tracked Badru to his hideout in Ibadan, where he was apprehended.
“During interrogation, the suspect voluntarily admitted to the crime,” said CP Ojo, noting that police also recovered forged documents and other incriminating evidence.
Further investigations are underway, and Badru is expected to be charged in court soon.