Police Arrest Osun Monarch Inside Court After Hearing

Drama unfolded at the Osun State High Court sitting in Ede on Monday as operatives of the Nigeria Police Force arrested the Elegbedi of Egbedi, Oba Muideen Azeez, shortly after court proceedings.

The monarch had appeared before Justice Kudirat Akano alongside four others, Akeeb Azeez Abioye, Yisa Surajudeen Akolapo, Rasidi Ayandiran, and Sarafadeen Abioye over allegations bordering on arson and robbery.

According to the charges, the defendants were accused of attacking a farm in Iloba within the Ede Judicial Division on September 3, 2019, allegedly armed with firearms and other weapons.

They were said to have dispossessed Wasilatu Akinola and other women of about 70 kegs of palm oil, palm produce, livestock, and other items valued at approximately N10 million.

During Monday’s hearing, defence counsel M. Atobatele presented four witnesses, including three police officers and a palace secretary. One of the officers, Assistant Superintendent of Police Akindosu Olusoji, told the court that the monarch had initially reported the destruction of his farm, leading to the arrest of suspected perpetrators.

Olusoji testified that upon visiting the farm, he met a pastor and labourers spraying chemicals on maize crops. He said they claimed ownership of the farm but were arrested and detained as part of the investigation, adding that none of the defendants were arrested at the time, as they were the complainants.

Justice Akano adjourned the case until June 17 for continuation of hearing.

However, moments after the court session ended, police operatives moved in and arrested the monarch within the court premises.

Confirming the development, the Osun State Police Command spokesperson, Abiodun Ojelabi, stated that the arrest was carried out in compliance with a valid court order and remand warrant.

He added that the traditional ruler has since been remanded at the Ile-Ife Correctional Centre.