By Ayodele Popoola

A 25-year-old nursing mother, Memunat Azeez, on Thursday appeared before an Akure Magistrates’ Court for allegedly setting ablaze a cashew plantation.

The Police prosecutor, Suliaman Adebayo told the court that the accused committed the offence in December 24, 2022 at the farm situated at Powerline Camp via Ago Dada Ala in Akure North Local Government Area.

Adebayo said that the accused  set ablaze 200 hectares of cashew plantation valued at N200,000,000 property of INNOUIUM/ ODSG Farm Limited.

“The case was reported to the police which led to the arrest of the defendant while other culprits are still at large.” He added.

According to him, the offence contravene Section 445 (a) and (c) of the Criminal Code, Laws of Ondo State, 2006.

The accused, however, pleaded not guilty to the one-count charge of arson.

The defence counsel applied for the bail of the accused in most liberal terms.

Magistrate Temitope Owolabi granted bail to the accused in the sum of N200, 000 with two sureties in like sum.

She adjourned the case till February 1, for hearing.