The Baale of Yale Camp in Bolorunduro, Idanre Local Government Area of Ondo State, Ojo Olomolekulo, has been arraigned before an Akure Magistrate Court for allegedly flogging and injuring villagers who resisted paying what they described as an illegal toll fee.
Arraigned alongside him were two alleged accomplices, Isaac Oloyede and Kehinde Tope.
The trio were accused of assaulting two residents, Iyabo Ajibade and Thompson Owoyemi, on December 15, 2024, after the victims reportedly refused to comply with the toll fee demand. In addition to the assault charges, Ojo faces separate allegations of illegally selling parts of a government-owned forest reserve to two different buyers.
The charges brought against them include violations of Sections 351, 38, and 274 of the Criminal Code Law of Ondo State, 2006. All three defendants pleaded not guilty to the charges.
During court proceedings, the defence counsel, O.A. Oladunjoye, appealed for bail on behalf of the accused. However, the prosecuting counsel, O.A. Iroaye, opposed the request, stating that the Baale posed a threat to peace in the community. “It is rather disturbing that a traditional leader who should be a custodian of peace is now facing allegations of intimidation and illegal land deals,” Iroaye told the court.
Presiding Magistrate Taiwo Lebi ordered the Baale to cease all forms of toll collection from villagers and issued a stern warning against any actions that could further disturb public order. The case was adjourned to June 20, 2025, for further hearing.
