The Ajagun Ode of Ode Community in Akure North local government area, Oba Adewale Sunday Boboye, has been sentenced to 10 years imprisonment for unlawful destruction of palm trees and food crops.

Oba Boboye was jailed by an Osi Magistrates’ Court after he was found guilty of the six count charges preferred against him.

The convict and others at large were said to have, on September 20, 2022, at the demolished the perimeter fence of the Pastorate and laity of the Apostolic Church Nigeria, along Ado Ekiti Road.

They were also accused of destroying palm trees and food crops as well as signpost of the church.

Police prosecutor, Sergeant Ajiboye Babatunde, who called four witnesses, said the convict, when arrested, could not give satisfactory account to the police.

He prayed the court to punish him accordingly to serve as a deterrent to others who might indulge in a similar act.

Oba Boboye, through his counsel, Adeola Kayode, denied the allegations levelled against him but begged the court to temper justice with mercy.

Presiding Magistrate, Mrs Bukola Ojo sentenced the convict to 10 years after she found him guilty of the charges.

She convicted and sentenced the accused to two years imprisonment for a period of two years on count one or an option of N20,000 fine.

On count two and three, Oba Boboye was sentenced to two years each without an option of fine.

Oba Boboye was sentenced to two years imprisonment without an option of fine on count five and was bagged one year imprisonment on count six or a fine of N20,000.

On count six, the defendant is sentenced to an imprisonment for a period of one year with an option of fine of N20,000.

The court also awarded the sum of N5m as compensation to the

complainant for the damage of the perimeter fence, palm trees and other crops.

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