A 56-year-old farmer from Ondo, Oyinlola Jacob, has been remanded at the Olokuta Correctional Centre for allegedly setting his brother’s farm, valued at N20 million, on fire.
Jacob was arraigned by the Ondo State Police Command at an Akure Magistrates’ Court, facing a charge of arson. The identity of Jacob’s residence was not disclosed during the proceedings.
During the hearing, police prosecutor Taiwo Oniyere informed the court that the incident occurred on January 29, 2025, at Odebei Farm in Ipogun, Ondo State. Oniyere accused Jacob of unlawfully entering the farmland of his brother, Ilemobayo Jacob, which contained cocoa, palm trees, plantains, and kolanuts, and intentionally igniting the blaze.
The prosecutor explained that this act violates Sections 516 and 443 of the Criminal Code, Cap 37, Vol. 1, Laws of Ondo State, 2006. In response to the charges, Jacob pleaded not guilty.
Additionally, Oniyere mentioned that two witnesses were already ready to testify, and the prosecution sought more time to prepare for trial while planning to call an additional witness.
Defense counsel O.A. Adanlawo did not contest the prosecution’s request but appealed to the court for the defendant to be granted bail under lenient conditions, assuring the court that Jacob would not abscond and that he could provide trustworthy sureties.
In his ruling, Magistrate Olusola Olujobi granted bail to Jacob in the amount of N10 million, with two sureties each also required to have a similar sum. The court stipulated that the sureties must reside within its jurisdiction, provide an affidavit of means, and submit two passport-sized photographs.
However, Jacob was unable to meet the bail conditions and was subsequently remanded at the Olokuta Correctional Centre. The case has been adjourned until July 29, 2025, for further proceedings.
