Olufi of Gbongan, Aides Arraigned Over Alleged Threat, Firearm Offence

By Lekan Lisoye 

A Magistrate’s Court sitting in Gbongan, Osun State, has arraigned the Olufi of Gbonganland, Oba Adetoyese Oyeniyi Odugbemi I, alongside two traditional worshippers and other associates on allegations of criminal conspiracy, threat to life, unlawful possession of a firearm and manslaughter.

The defendants, identified as Jamiu Jimoh Adekoya (52), Okutunde Ojo, and others yet to be fully profiled, were brought before the court following a charge initiated by the Osun State Police Command.

According to the charge sheet presented in court, the alleged offences took place on December 15, 2020, at about 10:00 a.m. in Gbongan, where the defendants were accused of threatening the life of one Asabi Olusola Abiodun, reportedly in connection with a chieftaincy-related disagreement.

The prosecution informed the court that the alleged threat involved a locally made single-barrel firearm said to have been held without proper authorization, a development the police described as a violation of firearm regulations and criminal provisions under the Criminal Code, Cap 17, Volume II, Laws of Osun State 2002.

“The defendants jointly engaged in conducts capable of breaching public peace. The unlawful possession of an unlicensed firearm forms a critical component of the charge,” the prosecution stated.

The prosecuting team further argued that the alleged offences contravene Sections 516 and 86 (1) & (2) of the Criminal Code, which provide penalties for conspiracy and unauthorized possession of firearms.

The action is being prosecuted on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, Osun State.

All defendants pleaded not guilty to the allegations.

Counsel to the monarch, Adekilekun Afolabi Esq, insisted his clients would clear their names in court.

“My clients maintain their innocence. We intend to challenge the prosecution’s claims and show that the allegations have been overstated,” he said.

Responding, the prosecution maintained that the matter would proceed strictly by due process.

“No individual is above investigation or accountability. Evidence will be presented as required under the law,” the state counsel told the court.

Presiding Magistrate B.O. Adebakin granted each defendant bail in the sum of ₦500,000, with two responsible sureties in like amount, warning against interference with the judicial process.

“Bail is to ensure presence for trial. Any breach of conditions will lead to revocation,” the magistrate ruled.

The matter was adjourned to January 12, 2021, for continuation of hearing.