Two siblings, Ajuwon Babawale and Ajuwon Samiat, were on Friday arraigned before an Iyaganku Chief Magistrates’ Court in Ibadan, Oyo State, over the alleged theft of gold jewellery valued at more than N20 million. The defendants are facing multiple charges, including conspiracy, stealing, and conduct likely to cause a breach of public peace.

Babawale, aged 37, and his 32-year-old sister, Samiat, both residents of Ibadan, pleaded not guilty to all the charges preferred against them by the police. Their arraignment attracted attention due to the high value of the items allegedly stolen and the circumstances surrounding the case.

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According to the prosecution, the alleged offences occurred at about 9:00 a.m. on January 1 at No. 34 Stargate, Oluyole Estate, Ibadan. The prosecutor, Sgt. Akeem Akinloye, informed the court that the siblings unlawfully entered the apartment of the complainant, Emeka Eze, and stole valuable gold items.

Akinloye told the court that the items allegedly stolen included a 24-carat gold hand chain valued at N11.8 million and an 18-carat gold necklace worth N8.6 million, bringing the total value of the jewellery to N20.4 million. He added that the defendants’ actions went beyond theft, as they allegedly conducted themselves in a manner capable of disturbing public peace.

The prosecutor further alleged that Babawale and Samiat entered the complainant’s apartment without his consent and made video recordings of the premises without his knowledge. According to him, this act contributed to the breach of public peace charge leveled against the defendants.

Siblings plead not guilty as court sets bail conditions

Sgt. Akinloye explained that the offences allegedly committed by the siblings contravened Sections 249(6), 390(9), and 516 of the Criminal Code Laws of Oyo State, 2000. These sections relate to disorderly conduct, stealing, and conspiracy, respectively.

Following the defendants’ plea of not guilty, the court proceeded to consider their bail applications. The Chief Magistrate, Mrs. Olabisi Ogunkanmi, granted bail to the first defendant, Babawale, in the sum of N5 million. She also ordered that he must provide two sureties in like sum as part of the bail conditions.

In her ruling, the magistrate granted the second defendant, Samiat, bail on self-recognition, taking into account her status and the circumstances presented before the court. The differing bail conditions reflected the court’s discretion in balancing the seriousness of the allegations with the rights of the accused persons.

The court subsequently adjourned the case until April 21 for hearing, during which the prosecution is expected to present its witnesses and evidence to substantiate the charges. Until then, both defendants are to remain compliant with their respective bail conditions.

The case highlights ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies in Oyo State to address alleged property-related crimes and ensure that suspects are brought before the law, regardless of their relationship or background. As the trial progresses, the court will determine the culpability or otherwise of the defendants based on the evidence presented.