Fatshimetrie, a woman, Tina Aguocha, has appeared before a Surulere Magistrate’s Court, Lagos, for allegedly obtaining N1.6 million under the guise of facilitating an adoption process. Aguocha, aged 43 and residing at No. 3, Sarim Street, Itire, Surulere, Lagos, is charged with fraud. The prosecutor, Inspector Sadiq Adewale, told the court that Aguocha committed the offence on May 17, 2023, at No. 13, Alubarika Street, Ijeshatedo Surulere, Lagos. He alleged that Aguocha falsely represented herself as a midwife working at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH).
According to him, Aguocha used her position to fraudulently obtain the sum of N1.6 million from one Ignatius Chidebere, by making him believe that she could help him adopt a child from an orphanage in Lagos. The prosecutor said the defendant assured the complainant that she could facilitate an adoption process from any orphanage in Lagos, adding that she had done so for other people. The prosecutor further stated that when the process failed, the defendant was unable to refund the money.
This case raises questions about the duplicity and dishonesty that can exist within the very institutions that are supposed to provide care and protection. The fact that a person can abuse the trust of others, by exploiting such sensitive circumstances as adoption, is appalling and shows the need for greater regulation and monitoring in this area.
It is essential that the relevant authorities thoroughly investigate such cases and take strong measures to discourage such practices in the future. Vulnerable people, such as couples seeking to adopt a child, deserve protection and assurance against such fraudulent acts.
In conclusion, the Aguocha case highlights the need for constant vigilance and strict regulation to ensure the integrity of adoption processes and the protection of the parties involved. Justice must be served in this case to ensure that such acts do not go unpunished and to deter others from engaging in similar practices in the future.