A renowned actress in Nigeria‘s vibrant film industry, Kannywood, has recently made headlines after being arrested for allegedly attempting to bribe a police officer in Kano state.
The incident involved a sum of 250,000 naira (£137; $175), which Umar purportedly offered to have her impounded car released.
According to the police, Umar’s vehicle was seized over a year ago under suspicion of being purchased with proceeds from fraud allegedly committed by her boyfriend, Ramadan Inuwa, who is currently wanted on charges related to obtaining money by false pretenses.
Umar’s lawyer, Adama Usman, vehemently denies the charges, stating that it was the police officer who initially solicited money.
Usman claims that Umar was coerced into the situation and asserts that they will vigorously defend her innocence in court.
“We won the initial case in court where they were trying to link her with her boyfriend’s activities which she has no hands in,” stated Mrs. Usman. “But the police are yet to obey court orders four months in by still holding on to her car.”
The police, represented by spokesman Bashir Muhammad, allege that Umar promised more money after giving the initial sum to the officer.
Despite being released on bail, the actress faces a legal battle ahead as the case unfolds.
Umar, known for her extensive work in the film industry and massive social media following, remains a prominent figure in Nigerian entertainment.