Ondo Traditional Ruler Arraigned for Allegedly Flogging Villagers

The Baale of Yale Camp in Bolorunduro, Idanre Local Government Area of Ondo State, Ojo Olomolekulo, has been brought before an Akure Magistrate Court for allegedly whipping and injuring villagers who opposed paying what they termed an unlawful toll fee.

Arraigned alongside him were two alleged accomplices, Isaac Oloyede and Kehinde Tope.

The trio were charged with assaulting two residents, Iyabo Ajibade and Thompson Owoyemi, on December 15, 2024, after the victims reportedly refused to comply with the toll fee demand. In addition to the assault charges, Ojo faces separate accusations of illegally selling portions of a government-owned forest reserve to two different buyers.

The charges filed against them include breaches of Sections 351, 38, and 274 of the Criminal Code Law of Ondo State, 2006. All three defendants entered not guilty pleas to the charges.

During the court proceedings, the defense counsel, O.A. Oladunjoye, requested bail on behalf of the accused. However, the prosecuting counsel, O.A. Iroaye, opposed the request, arguing that the Baale posed a threat to peace in the community. “It is rather disturbing that a traditional leader who should be a custodian of peace is now facing allegations of intimidation and illegal land deals,” Iroaye told the court.

Presiding Magistrate Taiwo Lebi directed the Baale to stop all forms of toll collection from villagers and issued a firm warning against any actions that could further disrupt public order. The case was adjourned to June 20, 2025, for further hearing.

A Gentle Reminder: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every morning; a chance to go again, and those little steps take you closer to your dream.

Nnamdi Okoli