Ondo Traditional Ruler Draged To Count For Allegedly Flogging Villagers

Ojo Olomolekulo, the Baale of Yale Camp in Bolorunduro, Idanre Local Government Area, Ondo State, was arraigned at Akure Magistrate Court for allegedly beating villagers who refused to pay an “illegal toll fee.”

Two others, Isaac Oloyede and Kehinde Tope, were also charged with the traditional ruler.

They are accused of attacking two residents, Iyabo Ajibade and Thompson Owoyemi, on December 15, 2024, after the victims didn’t agree to pay the toll.

Besides the assault, Ojo is also accused of illegally selling parts of a government-owned forest reserve to two buyers.

They face charges under Sections 351, 38, and 274 of the Ondo State Criminal Code Law from 2006.

All three pleaded not guilty to the charges.

At the court session, their lawyer, O.A. Oladunjoye, asked for bail, but the prosecutor, O.A. Iroaye, opposed it, saying the Baale is a threat to community peace.

Iroaye said, “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.”

Magistrate Taiwo Lebi ordered the Baale to stop collecting tolls from villagers and warned him against any actions that could cause more trouble.

The next hearing is scheduled for June 20, 2025.

KanyiDaily also reported that the Ondo State Amotekun Corps launched an investigation into claims that a pastor impregnated a 13-year-old disabled chorister in Odigbo Local Government Area.