3 men in court over alleged theft of cleric’s generator

Two men, Olaniyi Poroye (21) and Stephen Tugbogbo (20), were on Wednesday docked at an Okitipupa Magistrates’ Court in Ondo State for allegedly stealing a generator belonging to Pastor Akinwunmi Ogunleko.


The Prosecutor, Sgt. Ayodeji Omoyeigha, told the court that the accused, on Aug. 12 around 1:30 p.m. at No. 2, Broad Street, Ode-Aye, via Okitipupa, conspired to steal a Sumec generator valued at N55, 000.


He said that the accused, of no fixed addresses and occupations, committed offences, contrary to Sections 516, 412 and 390(9) of the Criminal Code, Cap.37, Vol. 1, Laws of Ondo State, 2006.


Omoyeigha added that another accused, Ayodeji Kayode (30), on Aug. 14, at about 2:00 p.m. at Jokodo Farm in Okitipupa, also received the stolen Sumec generator from Poroye and Tugbogbo.


He said that the offence was contrary to Section 427 of the Criminal Code, Cap. 37, Vol. 1, Laws of Ondo State, 2006. Meanwhile, the first and second accused pleaded not guilty to the three-count charge of conspiracy, felony and stealing, levelled against them.


The third accused also pleaded not guilty to a one-count charge of receipt of stolen property.


The Magistrate, Mr Banji Ayeomoni, granted the first and second accused bail tentatively in the sum of N50, 000 while the third accused was admitted to bail in the sum of N30, 000 with sureties in like sums, who must produce evidence of tax payments.


He ordered the return of the generator to the owner and adjourned the case till Sept. 17, for further hearing.