An Abeokuta Magistrates’ Court in Isabo has sentenced five Ogboni chiefs to six months imprisonment each for conspiracy, malicious damage, conduct likely to cause a breach of peace, and theft.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) identified the convicts as Anthony Ogunseye (55), Ajasa Enisemo (67), Saheed Sanusi (50), Oludotun Oliyide (60), and Fatai Mutairu (63).
Presiding Magistrate E.O. Ogunyemi delivered the judgment, stating that the prosecution proved its case beyond reasonable doubt. The evidence presented was deemed credible, leading to the chiefs’ conviction. Each convict was sentenced to six months imprisonment, with the option of a ₦50,000 fine.
Details of the Offence
Prosecutor Inspector Olaide Rawlings informed the court that the offences occurred on March 21, 2023, at around 12:15 p.m. at the Ogboni House in the Igbore area of Abeokuta.
Rawlings explained that the chiefs conspired to destroy official notices from the Abeokuta South Local Government, which were affixed to the walls, doors, and windows of the Ogboni House. The building had been sealed by the local government for security reasons amid a dispute over filling a vacant chieftaincy title.
In defiance, the Ogboni chiefs removed caution tape placed on the property and unlawfully took two metal bars fixed to the house’s doors by the local authorities.
Legal Implications
The prosecutor cited that their actions violated Sections 451, 516, 249(d), and 383 of the Criminal Code, Volume II, Laws of Ogun State 2006.
The court’s ruling sends a strong message about the importance of respecting government regulations and maintaining public order.
NAN
