A magistrates’ court in Owode-Egba, Ogun State, has granted bail in the sum of N10 million to the embattled Olu of Obafe, Oba Taofeek Owolabi Olukayode, who is facing charges of fraud, conspiracy, and assault on a law enforcement officer.
The traditional ruler, who presides over the Obafemi-Owode Local Government Area, is accused of involvement in a N75 million land fraud scheme.
Appearing before Senior Magistrate M.O. Somefun, the monarch was arraigned on charges of deceitfully obtaining N75 million from Dr. Michael Adeyemi under the pretense of selling 500 acres of land.
According to court documents obtained by Medalinks News24, the fraudulent transaction occurred between September 18, 2023, and August 20, 2024.
Prosecuting the case, Senior State Counsel Timilehin Oredein revealed that the monarch knowingly participated in the fraudulent scheme, converting the entire sum to his personal use.
Oredein pointed out that the monarch’s actions violated Sections 383, 390, and 419 of the Ogun State Criminal Code Law of 2006, which penalizes obtaining money through false pretenses and misappropriation of funds.
In addition to the financial fraud allegations, the monarch faces a related charge of assault.
During his arrest on October 21, 2024, Oba Olukayode allegedly assaulted ASP Oriade David, a law enforcement officer, destroying the officer’s eyeglasses in the process.
This act, according to Oredein, constitutes a violation of Section 356 of the Criminal Code Law.
Despite the serious nature of the charges, the court granted Oba Olukayode bail, setting the sum at N10 million with two sureties of equal value.
Medalinks News24 observed that the monarch’s family was working to meet the bail conditions at the time of filing this report.
The unfolding case has sparked widespread public interest due to the prominent position of the accused.
With the trial expected to draw considerable attention, the case has been adjourned to November 25, 2024, when further proceedings will take place.
As the community watches the legal battle unfold, the court prepares for what many expect to be a high-profile trial that could have significant implications for the monarch’s reputation and standing in the state.
