By Oluwadamilola Akinduro
A 37-year-old farmer, Michael John, has been remanded at the Olokuta Correctional Centre by an Akure Magistrates’ Court over allegations of theft.
John, whose address was not provided, was arraigned by the Ondo State Police Command on a charge of stealing 40kg of cocoa beans valued at ₦560,000 from the farmland of Chief Joseph Ojo Peter.
Police prosecutor Oniyere Taiwo told the court that the alleged offence occurred on January 16, 2025, and contravened Section 390(9) of the Criminal Code, Cap 37 Vol. 1, Laws of Ondo State, 2006.
John pleaded not guilty. Taiwo informed the court that two witnesses were available and that he intended to call one more, requesting time to review the case file and prepare for trial.
Defence counsel G.O. Bernard did not oppose the request but urged the court to grant bail on lenient terms, assuring that his client would not abscond and would provide credible sureties.
Magistrate O.T. Jayeoba granted John bail at ₦500,000 with two sureties in like sum. The court specified that the sureties must reside within its jurisdiction, provide an affidavit of means, and submit two passport photographs.
However, John failed to meet the bail conditions and was subsequently remanded at the Olokuta Correctional Centre.
The case was adjourned until February 13, 2025, for further hearing.