Magistrate Court Sentences 29-Year-Old Man to Two Years Imprisonment for Farm Theft and Vandalism Following Arrest by Osun Amotekun Corps

 

Justice was served this week in Ila-Orangun, Osun State, as a 29-year-old man, Olaniyan Taofik (male), was sentenced to two years imprisonment without the option of fine for offenses including unlawful entry, theft, and malicious damage to property.

The judgment was delivered by Magistrate A.A. Ayeni at the Magistrate Court sitting in Ila-Orangun, following Taofik’s arrest and prosecution by the Osun State Amotekun Corps.

According to official reports, the convict, Olaniyan Taofik, unlawfully entered the farmland of Mr. Omidoyin Clement, a resident of Isale-Osun in Ila-Orangun, and proceeded to steal various agricultural items including farm tools, cocoa, bananas, walnuts, and live catfish. The stolen items were valued at approximately ₦400,000. In addition to the theft, the convict also vandalized a CCTV surveillance camera installed on the farm, causing an estimated ₦300,000 worth of damage.

The incident occurred on July 16, 2025, and was promptly reported to the Ila-Orangun Command of the Osun Amotekun Corps. Acting swiftly on the complaint, operatives of the Amotekun Corps launched an investigation and successfully apprehended the suspect as he attempted to sell the stolen farm produce and equipment.

During preliminary interrogation by the Intelligence and Investigation unit of the Corps, Taofik voluntarily confessed to committing the crime and admitted to having engaged in similar criminal activities in the past.

The case was brought before the Magistrate Court by the Director of Legal Services for the Osun Amotekun Corps, Barr. Oyedele Akintayo Esq., who prosecuted the matter on behalf of the Attorney General of Osun State.

While delivering the judgment, Magistrate A.A. Ayeni stated that the defendant was found guilty of offenses contrary to and punishable under Sections 81, 390(9), and 451 of the Criminal Code, Cap 34, Volume II, Laws of Osun State of Nigeria, 2002. The court emphasized the need to deter individuals from engaging in repeated criminal behavior that threatens the livelihoods of honest citizens.

The Osun Amotekun Corps has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining law and order across the state, especially in rural communities where agricultural theft has become a growing concern. The Corps has also reiterated its readiness to collaborate with law-abiding citizens to ensure the safety and protection of life and property.