Two women have been arraigned before an Ado-Ekiti Chief Magistrates' Court over the alleged theft of N1.2 million. The defendants, Sule Joy, 32, and Omowumi Temilade, 22, appeared in court on May 13, facing a three-count charge of stealing and breach of peace.
Details of the Alleged Offences
The police prosecutor, ASP Olasunkanmi Bamikole, informed the court that the offences occurred between August 2025 and May 10, 2026, at Dalimore Junction in Ado-Ekiti. Both defendants were employed by the complainant, Mrs. Omolara Akanbi, as sales girls. According to the prosecutor, Joy allegedly collected N804,210 from cloth sales proceeds belonging to the complainant and failed to remit the amount. Similarly, Temilade allegedly diverted N408,610 from the cloth sales proceeds and did not remit it.
Legal Provisions and Court Proceedings
Bamikole stated that the offences contravened Sections 302 and 181(1)(d) of the Criminal Law of Ekiti State, 2021. He urged the court to grant an adjournment, citing the need for additional time to review the case file. He also noted that witnesses would be presented during the substantive hearing. The defendants pleaded not guilty to all charges.
Bail Application and Adjournment
The defense counsel, Mrs. Joy Egbuson, appealed for bail, assuring the court that her clients would not abscond. She stated, "The defendants are ready to face trial and will not jump bail if granted." Chief Magistrate Bankole Oluwasanmi granted each defendant bail in the sum of N80,000 with one surety each. The magistrate subsequently adjourned the matter to July 13 for hearing.
