A common dating complaint, “She collected transport money and blocked me” may sound like social media banter, but a Nigerian lawyer says the issue can cross into criminal territory under certain circumstances.
In a post shared on her Facebook page, Confidence Aribibia explained that when someone collects money with no intention of fulfilling their promise from the outset, it could amount to the offence of obtaining by false pretence under Nigerian law.
According to her, obtaining by false pretence occurs when a person makes a false representation, the victim believes it, and, based on that belief, parts with money or property with the accused having intended to deceive from the beginning.
She stressed that once money is obtained through deliberate deception, the matter goes beyond “relationship issues” and may become a criminal case.
However, Aribibia was careful to note that not every failure to show up after receiving transport fare qualifies as a crime.
“If she genuinely intended to come but something happened, there was a misunderstanding, or she later refunded the money, that may not amount to a criminal offence,” she explained.
She emphasized that the determining factor is intention: whether there was a preconceived plan to deceive or whether circumstances changed after the money was sent.
The lawyer also pointed out that the amount involved is irrelevant. Whether ₦5,000 or ₦500,000, once deception is established, the offence is considered complete under the law.
Still, she advised caution before involving law enforcement, urging potential complainants to consider whether they have clear evidence such as chat records, bank transfers, or other proof to support allegations of deception.
“Law is based on proof, not emotions,” she noted.
While many treat stories of “transport fare scams” as humorous social media content, Aribibia’s comments serve as a reminder that deliberate deception for financial gain can carry legal consequences.
Her message: know your rights, understand the law, and separate emotional reactions from legal realities.
