Teenager Remanded For Setting Fire On Cassava Farm

A teenager, Emmanuel Lagoro, 18, has been remanded in the Olokuta Correctional Centre by an Akure Magistrates’ Court for allegedly setting fire to a cassava farm.

Lagoro, whose residential address was not disclosed, was arraigned before the court by the Ondo State Police Command on a two-count charge of felony.

According to the police prosecutor, Augustine Omhenimhen, the incident occurred on January 5, 2025, at about 12:00 p.m., at Igunsi along Igbatoro Road, Akure.

Lagoro is accused of setting fire to a cassava farm valued at N3,000,000, belonging to Mrs. Afolayan Olayemi.

Omhenimhen further informed the court that the alleged offence contravened Sections 249(d) and 445 of the Criminal Code, Cap 37 Vol. 1, Laws of Ondo State, 2006.

The defendant pleaded not guilty to the charges.

Omhenimhen stated that he intended to call three witnesses and requested additional time to review the case file.

The defence counsel, Barrister Agunloye, did not object to the prosecution’s request but urged the court to grant bail on lenient terms.

The presiding magistrate, O.T. Lebi granted Lagoro bail in the sum of N500,000, with two sureties in like sum.

The court also stipulated that the sureties must reside within the jurisdiction, provide an affidavit of means, and submit two passport photographs.

However, Emmanuel was unable to meet the bail conditions and was subsequently remanded in the Olokuta Correctional Centre.

The case was adjourned till February 18, 2025, for further hearing.