Farmer arraigned for alleged destruction of palm trees in Ondo

By Boye Oyeyemi –

A 56-year-old farmer, Roland Adekunle, has been brought before the Okitipupa Chief Magistrates’ Court in Ondo State for allegedly damaging palm trees valued at N750,000.

Adekunle was arraigned on Friday on a two-count charge bordering on conspiracy and wilful destruction of property.

He, however, pleaded not guilty to the charges when they were read to him in court.

Prosecuting, Zedekiah Orogbemi told the court that the incident occurred on September 11, 2025, at about 10 a.m.

The prosecutor said the defendant, alongside another suspect who is currently at large, unlawfully trespassed on a plantation along the Okitipupa–Ikoya Road.

He alleged that the suspects destroyed young palm trees on a farmland owned by one Gbemi Ikuesan following a disagreement.

Orogbemi added that the alleged offences contravened Sections 517 and 457 of the Criminal Code of Ondo State.

Ruling on the matter, the Chief Magistrate, Olarenwaju Adelegan, granted the defendant bail in the sum of N100,000, with one surety in like sum.

The magistrate directed that the surety must reside within the court’s jurisdiction and provide evidence of two years’ tax payment, before adjourning the case until February 12 for further hearing.