An 80-year-old prince, Adefusi Adebisi, has been arraigned before a Magistrates’ Court in Ondo State on charges of willful property destruction and breach of public peace. Adebisi, from Bolorunduro in Ondo East Local Government Area, is accused of trespassing on land owned by Reverend David Akinadewo-Adekahunsi and destroying economic trees valued at ₦247 million.
The incident allegedly occurred on November 25, 2024, at Omilosu, near Bolorunduro. Police Prosecutor H. A. Olagbaju presented the charges (Charge No. MBD/8C/2025), accusing the defendant of conspiracy, malicious damage, and trespassing, actions that could provoke a breach of peace.
The charges include conspiracy to commit forcible entry and malicious damage, punishable under Section 516 of the Criminal Code Cap. 37 Vol I, Laws of Ondo State, 2006. Adebisi is also charged with willfully destroying plantain, cocoa, kolanut, and palm trees worth ₦247 million, which is punishable under Section 451 of the Criminal Code, as well as trespassing with intent to breach the peace, punishable under Section 81 of the Criminal Code.
Adebisi pleaded not guilty to all charges. His defense counsel, Mr. E. O. Edo, requested bail, stressing the presumption of innocence and his client’s commitment to attending all court hearings.
Senior Magistrate Mrs. Mike Akinbola granted bail in the sum of ₦10 million, with two sureties in like sum. The sureties must provide proof of means, submit two years’ worth of tax clearance, reside within the court’s jurisdiction, and present their National Identification Numbers (NIN).
The case has been adjourned to March 5, 2025, for hearing, with the prosecutor instructed to file all necessary evidence before the next session.
