80-Year-Old Prince Faces Court Over Alleged Land Destruction in Ondo
An 80-year-old prince, Adefusi Adebisi, was 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, along with other accomplices still at large, allegedly trespassed on land belonging to Reverend David Akinadewo-Adekahunsi and caused significant damage to economic trees valued at ₦247 million.
The incident, which occurred on November 25, 2024, at Omilosu via Bolorunduro, has led to Adebisi being charged with conspiracy, malicious damage, and trespassing. Police Prosecutor H. A. Olagbaju presented the charges (Charge No. MBD/8C/2025), emphasizing the likely threat to public peace posed by the actions.
The charges include:
- Conspiracy to commit forcible entry and malicious damage, under Section 516 of the Criminal Code Cap. 37 Vol I, Laws of Ondo State, 2006.
- Willful destruction of plantain, cocoa, kolanut, and palm trees worth ₦247 million, under Section 451 of the Criminal Code.
- Trespass likely to cause a breach of peace, under Section 81 of the Criminal Code.
Prince Adebisi, who pleaded not guilty to all charges, was represented by defense counsel Mr. E. O. Edo, who requested bail, citing 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 were required to provide an affidavit of means, evidence of two years of tax clearance, and proof of residency within the court’s jurisdiction, alongside submission of their National Identification Numbers (NIN).
The case was adjourned to March 5, 2025, for hearing, with instructions for the prosecutor to file all necessary evidence before the next session.
