ACQUITTED FOR FORGERY

Woman in court for forging visa application

by Temitayo Famutimi

For allegedly forging visa application documents, a 31-year-old woman, Victoria Ekpa, has been brought before an Igbosere Magistrate's Court, Lagos.

Ekpa in a bid to secure an Italian visa allegedly presented a forged letter of introduction from North Ocean Logistics and Solution, Lagos, to the Italian Embassy.

Besides, Ekpa was also accused of falsely presenting herself as Asewo Ugochukwu in all correspondence and dealings with the embassy.

It was alleged that the embassy became suspicious of the documents and after verification, it was discovered that the documents presented by Ekpe were fake.

The charge sheet stated, “That you Ekpa within the Lagos magisterial district did forge a letter of introduction purportedly issued by North Ocean Logistics and Solution, Lagos, in order for it to be acted upon as genuine at the Italian Embassy.

“That you Ekpa with intent to obtain Italian visa by deception did present yourself to be Asewo Ugochukwu a representation you knew to be false.”

Ekpa is charged with conspiracy to commit felony, forgery and false representation. She pleaded not guilty after the charges were read to her.

The prosecutor, Mr. Osungbure Idowu, said the offences were contrary to sections 409, 363 and 378 of the Criminal Laws of Lagos State 2011.

Magistrate O.I. Oguntade admitted the accused to bail in the sum of N50,000 with two sureties in like sum. The sureties are expected to furnish the court with evidence of tax payments to the Lagos State government.

Oguntade subsequently adjourned the case till February 22 for further hearing.

Culled from      26.1.2012