Ibadan Court Arraigns Two Men for Alleged Theft of N12 Million Stone-Breaking Machines

Two men, Kola Peters and Lasisi Mustapha, have been arraigned before the Iyaganku Chief Magistrates’ Court in Ibadan, Oyo State, on charges related to the alleged theft of stone-breaking machines valued at N12 million.

The court proceedings, which took place on Thursday, involved serious allegations of conspiracy, theft, and receiving stolen goods, all in violation of the state’s criminal laws.

Peters, 53, and Mustapha, 40, both of whom did not disclose their addresses, are accused of orchestrating the theft and handling of stolen machinery belonging to ENL Construction Company, located in Idi-Ayunre, Ibadan.

According to the prosecution, represented by Corporal Akeem Akinloye, the offence was committed at approximately 2:00 p.m. on January 18, 2013.

The stolen equipment, vital for the company’s operations, is said to be worth N12 million.

Corporal Akinloye detailed the charges against the defendants, explaining that Peters, an employee of ENL Construction Company, allegedly abused his position by stealing the stone-breaking machines.

The prosecution further asserted that Mustapha knowingly received the stolen machines from Peters, thereby implicating himself in the crime.

The charges brought against the pair fall under Sections 383, 390(9), and 427 of the Criminal Code Laws of Oyo State, 2000, which outline offences related to theft, conspiracy, and the receipt of stolen property.

The Criminal Code Laws of Oyo State stipulate severe penalties for such crimes, with a potential sentence of up to seven years’ imprisonment for those found guilty of stealing and receiving stolen goods.

Despite the gravity of the charges, both Peters and Mustapha pleaded not guilty during their arraignment, setting the stage for a contentious legal battle as the case progresses.

Chief Magistrate Mrs Olabisi Ogunkanmi presided over the arraignment and, after hearing the initial presentations, granted bail to the defendants.

Each of the accused was granted bail in the sum of N5 million, with the condition that they provide two sureties each in like sum.

Magistrate Ogunkanmi outlined strict conditions for the sureties: one must be a property owner with a Certificate of Occupancy, ensuring a legitimate and verifiable means of backing the bail.

The second surety must be a close blood relative of the defendants, providing an additional layer of accountability.

These stringent bail conditions reflect the serious nature of the offences and the court’s intent to ensure the defendants’ appearance in subsequent proceedings.

The court has adjourned the case until December 5 for further hearing, during which more evidence and testimonies are expected to be presented.

As the trial unfolds, the spotlight will remain on the prosecution’s ability to prove beyond reasonable doubt that Peters and Mustapha conspired to commit the alleged theft and knowingly engaged in the transaction of stolen goods.

The case has drawn public attention, highlighting ongoing concerns about corporate theft and the handling of stolen property within Nigeria’s construction industry.

The theft of such high-value equipment not only disrupts business operations but also underscores broader issues of trust and security within the sector.

If found guilty, the conviction of Peters and Mustapha would serve as a deterrent, sending a clear message about the consequences of engaging in such criminal activities.

The allegations also bring to light the critical role of the judiciary in upholding the rule of law and ensuring that justice is served.

The Chief Magistrate’s decision to impose significant bail conditions underscores the court’s awareness of the potential flight risk associated with high-profile theft cases, as well as its commitment to maintaining the integrity of the legal process.

As the legal proceedings continue, the defence is expected to challenge the prosecution’s claims, potentially raising arguments about the handling of evidence and the legitimacy of the charges.

The defendants’ plea of not guilty indicates that they will contest the allegations, setting up a legal confrontation that will test the robustness of the state’s case.

In the meantime, the construction company, ENL, and its stakeholders will be closely monitoring the outcome, given the substantial financial implications of the theft.

The recovery of the stolen machines, or compensation for their loss, remains a critical concern as the legal process unfolds.

Ultimately, this case serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in legal proceedings related to theft and the importance of a fair trial for all parties involved.

As the December 5 hearing approaches, all eyes will be on the Iyaganku Chief Magistrates’ Court to see how justice is administered in this high-stakes matter.