Three arraigned for alleged theft, receiving stolen goods

By Kayode Afolabi, Ore
Three men, Mohammed Mustapha (30), Nafiu Abdulahi (25), and Kelvin Joshua, have been arraigned before the Odigbo Chief Magistrates’ Court for allegedly stealing and receiving stolen property.
The police charged the defendants before Chief Magistrate Festus Akinlolu on a two-count charge of felony and stealing.
According to the prosecution, the defendants committed the offense on December 11, 2024, at about 10:00 p.m. at Lijoka via Ore, Ondo State.
The prosecutor, Inspector Usifoh James, informed the court that the defendants conspired and received stolen property.
He alleged that the stolen item, a power point Lister engine valued at approximately ₦1,280,000 and belonging to one Ayanda Oluwatobi, was received by the defendants from Kelvin Joshua.
Inspector James also disclosed that Kelvin Joshua is currently being held at the correctional center in Okitipupa.
The offenses contravene Sections 516(a) and 427 of the Criminal Code, Cap. 37, Volume 1, Laws of Ondo State of Nigeria, 2006.
The defendants pleaded not guilty to the charges.
The prosecutor requested an adjournment to review the case file and prepare witnesses for trial. Counsel for the defendants, Mrs. K. M. Lawani, did not oppose the request but urged the court to grant bail on lenient terms.
In his ruling, Chief Magistrate Festus Akinlolu granted the defendants bail in the sum of ₦500,000, with one surety in like sum. The case was adjourned until February 28, 2025, for mention.