A 60-year-old farmer, Tolani Aribo on Thursday, February 13, 2025, appeared before an Okitipupa Chief Magistrates’ Court in Ondo State over alleged malicious damage of young palm trees worth N200,000
The defendant, whose address was not given, is facing a two-count charge bordering on felony and malicious damage.
The Prosecutor, ASP Zedekiah Orogbemi, told the court that the defendant and others at large, on Jan.12 around 11: 25 am. at Igbodigo, Ayeka bypass in Okitipupa, Okitipupa Magisterial District, conspired to commi felony.
Orogbemi said that the defendant, and others at large, destroyed young palm trees worth N200,000 on the farm of one Wemimo Akindele over undisclosed dispute.
The prosecutor added that the offences were contrary and punishable under Sections 517 and 451, Criminal Code, Cap.37, Vol. 1, Laws of Ondo State, 2006.
The defendant, however, pleaded not guilty to the charges levelled against him.
The Chief Magistrate, Mr Olanrewaju Adelegan, granted the defendant bail in the sum of N100,000 and a surety in like sum.
Adelegan added that the surety, who must reside within the courts jurisdiction, must also show and present evidence of two years tax payment made to the state government.
He adjourned the case until Feb. 24 for further hearing.
By Aderemi Bamgbose