Man Arraigned Over Alleged Production, Sale Of Adulterated Drinks In Osun

A 49-year-old man, Segun Benjamin, has been arraigned before a Chief Magistrate’s Court in Osogbo, Osun State, over alleged production and possession of adulterated teas and drinks said to be unsafe for human consumption.

Benjamin was arraigned on Thursday before Chief Magistrate Dr Olusegun Ayilara on a three-count charge bordering on conspiracy, possession of adulterated or counterfeit products, and unlawful adulteration of items intended for consumption.

He pleaded not guilty to the charges.

The police prosecutor, Inspector Temitope Fatoba, told the court that the defendant allegedly had several products in his possession, including Bright Life Herbal Tonic, Kaye Bitters, Bright Life Herbal Teas, Atura Herbal Balm and Dr Fresh Super Bleach.

According to the prosecution, the alleged offences were committed on or before July 20, 2026, at about 9:30am on Odo-Ola Street, Igbona area of Osogbo, within the Osogbo Magisterial District.

In the first count, the police alleged that Benjamin conspired with other suspects, who are still at large, to commit a felony by possessing and exposing adulterated or counterfeit products for sale as food or drinks.

The charge stated that the defendant and his alleged accomplices “did conspire among yourselves to commit felony, to wit: exposing for sale things unfit for food or drink, being in possession of adulterated/counterfeit products.”

The prosecution said the alleged offence contravened Section 517 of the Criminal Code, Cap 34, Vol. II, Laws of Osun State, 2002.

The second count accused Benjamin of knowingly being in possession of adulterated teas and drinks intended for sale as food or beverages, despite their alleged harmful nature and unsuitability for human consumption.

The alleged offence was said to be contrary to Section 243(1) of the Criminal Code.

In the third count, the police alleged that Benjamin unlawfully adulterated teas and drinks intended for sale, knowing that the products could be offered to members of the public for consumption.

The offence was brought under Section 243(2) of the Criminal Code.

Following the defendant’s plea, his counsel, Barrister K.E. Ngwoke, applied for bail, urging the court to release his client, who he said was ready to face trial.

Ruling on the application, Chief Magistrate Ayilara granted Benjamin bail in the sum of N5 million, with two sureties in like sum.

The court ordered that the first surety must own a house, provide valid means of identification and submit the title documents of the property.

The second surety, according to the court, must be a responsible person with a three-year tax clearance certificate and a verifiable residential address.

The case was adjourned until November 30, 2026, for hearing.