Oba-Ile snake saga: Police arraign trader for defamation

By Kayode Olabanji &Abiodun Akinsawe
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The police have arraigned a 27-year-old trader, Adebola Olupoona, before an Akure Magistrate Court sitting at Oke Eda, over alleged breach of peace and defamation of character.

Olupoona, was said to have committed the offence in February 25, 2020 at second gate area, Oba-Ile in Osi Magisterial District.

The prosecution said the accused person and others at large allegedly defamed  of one Mrs. Sefunmi Olarewaju, by referring her to as ‘Iya Elejo’,    and thereby exposed her to hatred, ridicule and caused damage to her trade and reputation.

The alleged offences were contrary to and punishable under sections 516, 375 and 249(d) of the Criminal Code Cap 37, Volume 1, Laws of Ondo State of Nigeria, 2006.

The defendant pleaded not guilty to the charge when it was read to her.

The prosecutor, Inspector Uloh Goodluck, informed the court of his intention to call four witnesses to prosecute the matter. But he  prayed the court for an adjournment to enable him study the case file properly.

Lawyer representing the defendant, Mr Joseph Arinju, did not oppose the adjournment sought by the prosecutor. He prayed the court to grant the defendant bail in most liberal term.

The Magistrate, Mr. N. T Aladejana, granted the defendant bail in the sum of N20,000 with one surety in like sum. He said the surety must be resident within the jurisdiction of the court and must swear to an affidavit.

The case was adjourned till March 20, 2020 for trial.