The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arraigned a 19-year-old woman, Marian Elia, and her 21-year-old boyfriend, Izuchukwu Uzoma, over the alleged theft of ₦35.92 million from a woman who reportedly accommodated Elia in her home.

The defendants were arraigned before Justice C.A. Obiozor of the Federal High Court on a seven-count charge bordering on cybercrime, conspiracy and stealing.

The complainant, identified as Mrs. Esther Ogbeifun, resides in Benin City, Edo State.

According to the allegations, Elia allegedly exploited her access to Ogbeifun’s mobile phones and banking details while living in the woman’s house to facilitate the unauthorised transfer of funds.

The money was allegedly transferred into an account belonging to Uzoma, her boyfriend.

The prosecution’s case centres on the alleged use of access to the complainant’s financial information to divert millions of naira without her authorisation.

The defendants are facing seven counts relating to the alleged offences. However, the allegations remain to be established in court.

The case underscores the risks associated with unauthorised access to personal banking information and the importance of safeguarding financial credentials, even when shared within trusted relationships.

The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty by a court of competent jurisdiction.