Photo: Governor Lucky Ayedatiwa of Ondo State
The Baale of Yale Camp in Bolorunduro, Idanre Local Government Area, Ojo Olomolekulo, has been arraigned before an Akure Magistrate Court over charges of assault and illegal land transactions.
According to court proceedings, Baale Olomolekulo, along with two alleged accomplices—Isaac Oloyede and Kehinde Tope—was accused of flogging and inflicting bodily harm on two residents, Iyabo Ajibade and Thompson Owoyemi, on December 15, 2024.
The attack reportedly followed the victims’ refusal to pay what they described as an illegal toll fee demanded at a makeshift checkpoint operated by the traditional leader and his associates.
In addition to the assault allegations, the Baale is facing charges of illegally selling part of a government-owned forest reserve to two different buyers. These actions, prosecutors say, violated public trust and endangered community stability.
The prosecution stated that the offences contravened Sections 351, 38, and 274 of the Ondo State Criminal Code Law (2006).
The defendants pleaded not guilty to all charges.
Their counsel, O.A. Oladunjoye, appealed for bail on their behalf, but the prosecuting counsel, O.A. Iroaye, opposed the request, urging the court not to allow any form of out-of-court settlement.
“It is troubling that a traditional authority, meant to promote peace, is at the centre of intimidation and illegal land dealings,” Iroaye stated.
Presiding Magistrate Taiwo Lebi issued a stern warning to Baale Olomolekulo, instructing him to immediately cease all toll collections and refrain from any activity that could disrupt community peace.
The case was adjourned to June 20, 2025, for further hearing.
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