In Ondo State, two labourers, Aduak Effiong and Godwin Etim, have been brought before the Akure Chief Magistrates Court on charges of conspiracy, stealing, and threat to life. The defendants, alongside one suspect at large, were arraigned on a three-count charge, which they both denied. According to the prosecution led by Inspector Nelson Akintimehin, the alleged offences were committed on January 24, 2026, at approximately 6:00 p.m. at Shoprite Roundabout in Akure.
The prosecutor informed the court that the defendants conspired to commit a felony and allegedly stole a Toyota Corolla (Vessel model) with number plate FNN 605 AA (Osun), valued at N10 million, belonging to one Ojo Akinlade. They were also accused of threatening the life of the vehicle's driver, Taiwo Oladele, via a phone call, demanding N100,000 for the release of the car. The offences, according to the prosecution, contravene Sections 516, 390(9), and 86 of the Criminal Code, Cap. 37, Vol. 1, Laws of Ondo State, Nigeria, 2006.
Defence counsel, Toun Mary Yinusa, urged the court to grant bail in liberal terms, assuring that the defendants would not abscond and would attend the trial diligently. Magistrate Sunday Adedapo granted each of the defendants bail in the sum of N500,000, each with one surety in like sum. The case was adjourned to May 6, 2026, for hearing.
The incident highlights the growing concern of vehicle theft in Ondo State, with many owners falling victim to such crimes. The Ondo State Police Command has been working to combat this issue, and the recent arrest of the two labourers is a significant step in this direction. However, the fact that one suspect is still at large suggests that there may be a larger network involved in the crime.
As the case unfolds, it will be interesting to see how the defendants respond to the charges against them. The adjournment to May 6, 2026, gives the defence team time to prepare their case, while the prosecution continues to gather evidence. The outcome of this case will set a precedent for future vehicle theft cases in Ondo State and may help to deter others from engaging in similar crimes.
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