Oyo Govt Prosecutes 13 Offenders for Road Kerb Damage
The Oyo State Government, through the Oyo State Rule of Law Enforcement Authority (OYRLEA), has commenced the prosecution of 13 individuals over the alleged wilful and malicious damage of state-owned road infrastructure in Ibadan.
The enforcement exercise was led by the Chairperson of OYRLEA, Honourable Justice Aderonke Aderemi (rtd.), alongside officials of the Authority on Tuesday, January 20, 2026. The operation resulted in the arrest of Farinde Lawal, Akanji Kazeem, Abidemi Isiaq, and ten others.
The suspects were arraigned on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, before the Chief Magistrate Court, Ibadan Magisterial District, sitting at Iwo Road, on a two-count charge of conspiracy and wilful damage.
According to the charge sheet, the defendants allegedly conspired and maliciously damaged road kerbs constructed by the Oyo State Government on January 20, 2026, at Odejayi Area along Old Ife Road and New Gbagi Area in Ibadan. The offences are said to be contrary to Sections 516 and 451 of the Criminal Code, Cap 35, Vol. II, Laws of Oyo State, 2000.
During the court proceedings, all the defendants pleaded not guilty to the charges. The presiding Magistrate subsequently granted them bail under stringent conditions.
Each defendant is required to produce two sureties, one of whom must be a blood relation, while the other must be a government employee. The government-employed surety is also mandated to present evidence of a minimum bank balance of ₦200,000, a valid two-year tax clearance certificate, and proof of ownership of landed property within the court’s jurisdiction.
The case was adjourned to February 13, 2026, for further mention.
Reiterating its stance, OYRLEA said it remains committed to safeguarding public infrastructure and ensuring that individuals who violate the law are held accountable through due legal processes.
The Authority assured residents that it will continue to operate within the ambit of the law to protect government assets and maintain order across Oyo State.
Abiodun Ogunrinde is a Linguist and Journalist with considerable years of experience in Print Journalism. He blends creativity with a sense of reporting that addresses public concern and human interests.
