An Osogbo Magistrate’s Court has arraigned seven persons for allegedly stealing a goat belonging to the Osun State Government.
The suspects, Muhammed Moruf, Ayeni Abiodun, Agboola Fatai, Fayinka Gbenga, Olowoniyi Jeromu, Olorunfunmi Adeyemi and Babatunde Michael were alleged to have stolen the goat at the government’s livestock garden, Osogbo on May 14, 2013 even as they face a two count charge of conspiracy and stealing.
The suspects which included six men and a woman were arraigned before Magistrate Habibat Bashiru and were alleged to have committed a punishable offence.
Police Prosecutor, Mr. Isiaka Ajadi, told the court that they committed the offence which is contrary to and punishable under section 516 and 390(9) of Criminal Code Cap 34 Vol. 11 laws of Osun State of Nigeria, 2003.
Counsel to the accused persons, Mr. Nnnena Ngwu, prayed the court to grant them bail assuring that he would produce them anytime they are wanted in court.
According to him, “I appeal to the court to grant my clients bail in the most liberal term as the suspects should be presumed innocent until the contrary is established. The suspects will not jump bail if granted and I will produce them whenever their attention is needed by the court.”
Though, the suspects pleaded not guilty to the offence and Magistrate Basiru, adjourned the case till June 5, 2013 for hearing, as he granted them bail in the sum of N50,000 each with a surety in like sum.
—- TribuneNG