On Monday, September 23, 2024, an Osun State Chief Magistrates’ Court in Osogbo handed down a six-month prison sentence to Sunday Ejoh, an aluminium worker, for stealing three tubers of yam. The case, presided over by Magistrate Mr. M. Olatunji, revolved around a single count of theft valued at N3,000.
Details of the Case Presented
During the proceedings, Prosecutor Mr. Jacob Akintunde provided the court with a detailed account of the incident. He stated that Ejoh had committed the theft on September 22, 2024, taking the tubers belonging to Oluwole Durojaye. Akintunde further revealed that the stolen items, along with a cutlass and a pair of slippers, were subsequently recovered from the defendant.
The prosecution emphasized that Ejoh's actions were in violation of Section 390(9) of the Criminal Code Cap 34 Vol. II Law of Osun State, Nigeria 2002. This legal context underscored the seriousness of the offence and the consequences associated with such theft.
Ejoh's Plea and Circumstances
Without legal representation, Ejoh entered a guilty plea, explaining that dire circumstances had driven him to commit the crime. "I was hungry, and I have a family," he expressed, highlighting the desperation that led to his actions. This admission added a layer of complexity to the case, prompting the court to consider the socio-economic factors at play.
Judgment and Sentencing
In delivering the judgment, Magistrate Olatunji confirmed Ejoh’s guilt and issued a sentence of six months’ imprisonment. However, he also provided an alternative, allowing for a fine of N25,000 in lieu of serving time. Additionally, the magistrate ordered that the stolen yam be returned to its rightful owner, ensuring that Durojaye was compensated for his loss.
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