The courts are a theatre for various cases ranging from the most serious to the most petty. Recently, during a hearing in Ado-Ekiti, the prosecutor, Inspector Akinwale Oriyomi, told the court about a case of stealing a water pump worth N350,000. The incident allegedly took place on October 21, around noon. The accused is accused of stealing the pump belonging to Muhammed Nasamu, contrary to Section 302(1)(a) of the Ekiti State Penal Code, 2021.
The accused pleaded not guilty to the charges. His counsel, Mrs. Adunni Olanipekun, pleaded for his release on bail, assuring the court that he would not attempt to flee. After due deliberation, the Principal Judge, Mr. Abayomi Adeosun, granted bail in the amount of N20,000 to the accused, with a surety in the same amount.
This seemingly trivial matter, however, raises questions about the security of property and life in our society. Theft, even of material possessions, is a violation of the trust and integrity of others. It is essential that justice be administered fairly and impartially, in order to deter such acts and ensure that everyone’s property is protected.
In conclusion, this case of water pump theft in Ado-Ekiti is a reminder that the law applies to all, irrespective of the nature of the offence. Let us hope that justice will be served in a manner that respects the rights of all, and that preventive measures will be taken to avoid such incidents in the future.