Two jailed for two years over N5m corn theft in Ekiti
The Ekiti State Magistrates’ Court sitting in Efon-Alaaye yesterday sentenced two persons, Akinyele Ojo and Michael Sunday, to two years’ imprisonment for conspiracy, forceful entry and stealing of corn valued
The Ekiti State Magistrates’ Court sitting in Efon-Alaaye yesterday sentenced two persons, Akinyele Ojo and Michael Sunday, to two years’ imprisonment for conspiracy, forceful entry and stealing of corn valued at over N5million.
The convicts were arraigned alongside Ipkechi Thomas, 25, and Michael Monday, 13, on nine counts bordering on conspiracy, unlawful entry and stealing.
According to the charge sheet, the defendants forcefully entered Suolayor Farm in Iwaji-Ekiti, Efon Local Government Area of the state, and stole corn belonging to a group of farmers.
The Chief Magistrate, Bayode Ebenezer Owoeye, said the case was first instituted in September 2024 and that the defendants had pleaded not guilty to the charges.
He noted that although parties initially agreed to an out-of-court settlement, the matter was revived after the defendants denied entering into any negotiation with the complainants.
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At the resumed hearing,defence counsel, J. L. Balogun, urged the court to temper justice with mercy, describing the defendants as young persons with promising futures.
Balogun argued that the offences attracted options of fine or community service, adding that the complainants did not physically witness the defendants stealing the corn.
However, the police prosecutor, Inspector Shittu Olatunji, urged the court to ensure justice was served, irrespective of the defendants’ age, noting that they showed no remorse.
Owoeye convicted and sentenced Ojo and Sunday to two years’ imprisonment.
The court discharged and acquitted Thomas, while the 13-year-old Monday was ordered to undertake three months’ community service on seven counts, to run concurrently.
The magistrate decried the spate of theft on farmlands, describing farming as a major source of livelihood for many Nigerians and stressing that farmers should be allowed to enjoy the fruits of their labour without interference.
Speaking with reporters after the judgment, the prosecutor expressed satisfaction with the verdict, commending the court for upholding the rule of law.
