MICHAEL AKINOLA
A 41-year-old man, Umaru Mohammed, was arraigned before an Ikeja Magistrate Court over allegations bordering on conduct likely to cause breach of peace and negligence that led to the theft of livestock in Lagos.
According to the charge brought by the Commissioner of Police, the incident occurred between April 24 and May 27, 2026, at No. 195, Iju Road, Iju-Ishaga, within the Ikeja Magisterial District.
The prosecution told the court that Mohammed was contracted to guard a ram shop at night. It was alleged that he collected the sum of Ten Thousand Naira as part payment of his salary from one Abdullahi Qaadri for the purpose of providing security at the premises.
Count one of the charge stated that the defendant allegedly conducted himself in a manner likely to cause breach of peace by failing to come to guard the shop at night after receiving the payment.
The offence was listed as contrary to and punishable under Section 168(d) of the Criminal Law of Lagos State of Nigeria, 2015.
In count two, the prosecution alleged that Mohammed unlawfully absented himself from his duty post due to negligence. It was further alleged that as a result of his absence, two big rams valued at One Million One Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira belonging to one Abdulai were stolen from the shop.
The charge stated that the alleged theft took place within the same period and at the same location in Iju-Ishaga. The prosecution noted that the defendant was engaged specifically to provide night security for the livestock and the business premises.
The matter was handled by officers from the Police station in the area. The Legal Police Officer listed on the charge sheet was Inspector Ezeakor Doris.
When the charge was read to him in court, he pleaded not guilty.
The prosecutor, SP Philip Ademigbuji, informed the court of the facts as contained in the Police charge sheet and asked for a date to enable the Police to prove the allegations.
The presiding Magistrate, Mrs. O. Kusanu, granted him bail with two sureties, who must show evidence of means of livelihood and tax payment.
The defendant was remanded in custody at the Correctional Center at Kirikiri town, Lagos, pending when he will perfect his bail conditions.
Legal observers note that under Nigerian law, every person charged with an offence is presumed innocent until proven guilty by a court of competent jurisdiction. The court is expected to hear evidence from both the prosecution and the defence before making a determination.
The matter has been adjourned and parties have been directed to return to court on the next adjourned date for continuation of proceedings.
