The police arraigned 42-year-old Seyi Olakanmi before the Chief Magistrates’ Court in Ado-Ekiti on Friday, facing charges of forgery and fraud. The defendant, who has no fixed address, is on trial for three counts related to forgery, fraud, and breach of peace.
Police Prosecutor Olasunkanmi Bamikole informed the court that Olakanmi committed the offences on May 7 at around 10 a.m. at Erinfun Street, Ado-Ekiti. He allegedly forged receipts for land belonging to the ASAO and Fajemilua families.
Additionally, Olakanmi is accused of defrauding Ekele Daniel of N630,000 by falsely claiming to sell a plot of land that was not his. Bamikole stated that the defendant’s actions were likely to disturb the peace.
The prosecutor requested an adjournment to review the case file and present witnesses. Olakanmi pleaded not guilty to all charges. His counsel, Mr. Opeyemi Esan, applied for bail, assuring the court that Olakanmi would not abscond.
Chief Magistrate Mr. Saka Afunso granted bail set at N50,000, requiring two sureties with similar amounts. One surety must provide evidence of tax payment for the past three years. The case has been adjourned until July 15 for further proceedings.