When a Woman Collects Transport Money and Doesn’t Show Up
A common online debate in Nigeria: A man sends a woman money for transport, but she never visits and spends it. Is that fraud, theft, or just poor conduct?
Let’s look at what the Nigerian law actually says.
⚖️ What the Law Says
Under Nigerian law, three possible offences may apply depending on intent and facts:
| Offence | Legal Basis | When It Applies |
|---|---|---|
| Theft / Stealing | Criminal Code, Section 383 | If she never intended to visit and took the money dishonestly |
| Obtaining by False Pretence | Criminal Code, Section 419 | If she deceived him with false promises to get the money |
| Criminal Breach of Trust | Penal Code, Sections 311–312 | If she was entrusted with money for a purpose and diverted it |
Key point: The law focuses on intent at the time of receiving the money. If she genuinely planned to visit but later changed her mind, it’s not a crime — it’s a civil issue that can be handled by demanding a refund or going to small claims court.
Real Nigerian Cases
- EFCC v. Yahaya (2023): The court upheld a conviction for criminal breach of trust, showing that misuse of entrusted funds can be prosecuted.
- Magistrate Rulings (2024): Some local courts ordered refunds where deceit was proven, but dismissed others as civil matters.
- Judicial Principle: No conviction without clear proof of dishonest intent or false representation.
💼 What You Can Do Legally
- Gather Evidence: Keep receipts, chat logs, bank alerts, and voice recordings.
- Send a Refund Request: Politely demand repayment with a clear deadline (e.g., 7 days).
- Use Small Claims Court: Quick and affordable for low sums.
- Police or EFCC Report: If there’s clear deception or a pattern of fraud.
- Consult a Lawyer: To decide between civil recovery and criminal complaint.
Bottom Line
Collecting transport money without showing up isn’t automatically fraud. It becomes a crime only if there was dishonest intent or false pretence. Otherwise, it’s a civil matter suitable for refund claims, not criminal prosecution.
Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. For specific cases, consult a qualified Nigerian lawyer.