An Abeokuta Magistrates’ Court in Isabo, Ogun State, has sentenced a woman, Falilatu Amidu, and her daughter, Ayisatu Amidu, to six months in prison for stealing a sack filled with stockfish, dried ponmo, and cow meat worth ₦1 million.
The stolen goods belonged to Mrs. Kafayat Alao.
The duo, residents of Ago-Oko, Abeokuta, were convicted on charges of conspiracy and theft.
How the Theft Unfolded
According to the prosecution, led by Insp. Kehinde Fawunmi, the crime took place at Lafenwa Market in August 2024.
Fawunmi explained that Falilatu Amidu, who regularly assisted the complainant in transporting goods, was entrusted with fetching items from the store.
However, after waiting for over an hour, Mrs. Alao went to check on her assistant, only to discover that both Falilatu and a large sack containing dried meat, ponmo, and stockfish were missing.
Investigations revealed that Falilatu had stolen the goods and handed them over to her daughter, Ayisatu, to sell—fully aware that they were stolen.
The prosecutor noted that their actions violated Sections 516, 390(9), and 127 of the Criminal Code Laws of Ogun State (2006).
Court’s Verdict
Delivering her judgment, Magistrate O.O. Odumosu ruled that the prosecution had proven the case beyond reasonable doubt.
As a result, both mother and daughter were sentenced to six months in prison each. However, they were given the option to pay a ₦5,000 fine. Additionally, the court ordered them to refund ₦100,000 each to the complainant as restitution before they could access the fine option.
