Conviction for Stealing Church and Market Items in Akure
An Ondo State Magistrate Court in Akure has sentenced a man, Olushola Olatunde, to 21 years in prison for stealing items worth over ₦1.34 million from churches and other locations. The convict, who was apprehended by the police in December 2024, pleaded guilty to six counts of theft and illegal entry.
The stolen items included money, public address systems, an audio mixer, a generator, and iron rods, among others. The court ruled that Olatunde’s actions contravened Sections 383, 390(9), 415, and 413(2) of the Criminal Code, Laws of Ondo State, 2006.
Details of the Offences
Olatunde committed the crimes on December 24, 2024, and January 8, 2025, targeting several locations in Akure. According to the prosecutor, D.S. Msonter-Shagba, the thefts included:
- Revelation of God Miracle Church (Isolo, Akure):
- A 16-channel live series audio mixer valued at ₦250,000.
- A public address system worth ₦250,000.
- Garden of Faith Church (Oke Ijebu, Akure):
- An amplifier valued at ₦230,000.
- A 6.5kV generator worth ₦250,000.
- Two lengths of 12mm rods valued at ₦19,600.
- An iron tithe box worth ₦35,000.
- Total value of items stolen: ₦534,600.
- Shasha Market (Kilometre 12, Owo Express Road, Akure):
- 33 bags of cement valued at ₦306,900.
In total, the stolen items amounted to ₦1,340,900. The prosecutor argued that Olatunde’s acts constituted serious violations under the criminal code.
Court Proceedings and Sentencing
The case was presided over by Magistrate Damilola Sekoni, who convicted Olatunde after he pleaded guilty to the charges. The court sentenced him as follows:
- Counts One, Two, Three, Five, and Six: Four years’ imprisonment each.
- Count Four: One year imprisonment.
The magistrate ruled that the sentences would run concurrently, meaning Olatunde will serve four years in a correctional facility.
Legal Implications and Prosecutor’s Remarks
Prosecutor Msonter-Shagba highlighted the gravity of the offences, emphasizing that they targeted religious institutions and disrupted public trust. He noted that the thefts were premeditated, as Olatunde broke into the premises with the intent to steal valuable items.
Magistrate’s Ruling on Concurrent Sentencing
The court explained that although the cumulative sentence amounted to 21 years, the concurrent nature of the sentencing reflects an opportunity for the convict to rehabilitate after serving his time. Magistrate Sekoni emphasized the need to deter such crimes while ensuring justice for the affected institutions and communities.
Community Reaction and Next Steps
The judgment has been met with mixed reactions in the Akure community. While many commend the swift handling of the case, others have called for greater measures to protect public and religious institutions from theft.
The Ondo State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining security and urged residents to report suspicious activities promptly. Meanwhile, the churches and market affected by the theft are working to recover from the losses and enhance their security measures.
This case underscores the importance of vigilance and community cooperation in curbing crime in the state.
