By Oluwadamilola Akinduro
A 31-year old businessman, Ehuwa Williams, has been arraigned before an Akure Magistrates’ Court on charges of reckless driving, assault, malicious damage, and N1.5 million theft.
The prosecution, led by Inspector Augustine Omhenimhen, informed the court that on September 18, 2024, at around 1:30 p.m., the defendant allegedly committed the offences at Alagbaka, Akure.
Williams was accused of driving a black Lexus 350 with number plate AKR 591 AP, recklessly on the highway at a dangerous speed, and collided with a red Toyota Camry, number plate BWR 634 BX, belonging to Alhaji Oyedele Aminu.
He was said to have fled the scene immediately after the incident.
Inspector Omhenimhen also alleged that on the same date and at around 2:05 p.m. at Ala Quarters in Akure, the defendant unlawfully assaulted one Elijah Samuel, by stabbing him in the right hand with a broken bottle, causing permanent injury.
The defendant is further accused of stealing N1,500,000, belonging to Elijah Samuel.
The alleged offences contravene Sections 18(5), 383, and 390(9) of the Criminal Code, Cap 37 Vol. 1, Laws of Ondo State, 2006.
The defendant pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Inspector Omhenimhen stated that two witnesses would testify in the case, requesting time to gather the witnesses and review the case file.
The defence counsel, Femi Abitoye, did not oppose the request and applied for bail on liberal terms, assuring the court that the defendant would provide credible sureties.
Magistrate O.T. Lebi granted bail to the defendant in the sum of N500,000 with one surety in like sum and adjourned the case until November 14, 2024, for further hearing.