A 60-year-old farmer, Mrs. Adelugba, has been killed by her labourer at Laoso community, Laje Camp axis of Ondo West Local Council Area, Ondo State. The labourer, who was accused of stealing kolanuts from the deceased’s farm, allegedly macheted her to death.
According to sources, the labourer had pleaded with the deceased not to expose him, as the village’s tradition dictates that anyone caught stealing would be banished. The source disclosed that the labourer promised to either pay for the stolen kolanuts or have the cost deducted from his wages at the end of the year, a compromise the woman accepted.
However, after the agreement, the labourer allegedly monitored the movement of the deceased to her farm, attacked her with a machete, and killed her. He then covered her body with leaves and palm fronds. The suspect was caught shortly after committing the crime and claimed that the deceased had persistently pressured him to own up to the theft.
Following his confession, the labourer led villagers to the scene, where the remains of the deceased were recovered and moved to the mortuary of the University of Medical Sciences Teaching Hospital (UNIMEDTH). Police sources confirmed that the suspect was initially detained at the Fagun Police Division before being transferred to the State Intelligence Bureau (SIB) in Akure for further investigation.
The Ondo State Police Command has confirmed the incident, stating that investigations are ongoing. The command is yet to release an official statement on the matter.
The incident has sparked outrage in the community, with many calling for justice for the deceased. The case is a tragic reminder of the consequences of theft and the importance of resolving disputes peacefully.
The labourer’s actions have been widely condemned, and many are calling for him to face the full weight of the law. The incident is a sad reminder of the violence that can result from disputes over property and the importance of finding peaceful solutions to conflicts.