Baale of Yale Camp in Bolorunduro, located within Idanre Local Government Area, Chief Ojo Olomolekulo and Accomplices Arraigned in Ondo for Alleged Assault and Illegal Activities
In a case that has stirred controversy in Ondo State, the Baale (community head) of Yale Camp in Bolorunduro, located within Idanre Local Government Area, Chief Ojo Olomolekulo, has been arraigned before a Magistrate Court in Akure for alleged involvement in criminal activities, including assault, extortion, and illegal land transactions.
Eyewitnesses claim that the victims were publicly flogged and sustained injuries during the assault, which was allegedly carried out to enforce payment for access to a part of the community. The incident reportedly caused fear and unrest among villagers, many of whom have voiced grievances over what they describe as ongoing intimidation and exploitation by local authorities.
In addition to the assault charges, Chief Ojo is also facing serious allegations of land racketeering. The prosecution alleged that he had illegally sold portions of a government-owned forest reserve to two different buyers—transactions that are both unauthorized and in violation of state land use laws. The forest reserve, according to state officials, is a protected area and not subject to individual sale or privatization.
The charges against the three defendants fall under Sections 351, 38, and 274 of the Criminal Code Law of Ondo State, 2006, which cover assault, conspiracy, and unlawful dealings with government property. During the arraignment, all three pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Representing the accused, defence counsel O.A. Oladunjoye petitioned the court for bail, arguing that the accused persons should be granted their constitutional right to liberty pending trial. However, the prosecuting counsel, O.A. Iroaye, strongly opposed the application. He cited concerns that granting bail, particularly to the Baale, could jeopardize the peace of the community and potentially lead to witness intimidation.
“It is rather disturbing that a traditional leader, who should be a custodian of order and moral conduct, is now being accused of such grave misconduct, including violence and illegal land sales,” Iroaye stated during the court proceedings.
Magistrate Taiwo Lebi, who presided over the case, issued an interim directive ordering Chief Ojo to halt all toll collection activities in the community. The court emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and cautioned the traditional ruler against taking any actions that could further disturb public order. Magistrate Lebi also stressed that the rule of law must be upheld regardless of social status or traditional titles.
The court subsequently adjourned the case to June 20, 2025, for further hearing. The outcome of the case is being closely watched, as it highlights broader issues concerning the abuse of traditional authority, land rights, and community governance in rural parts of Nigeria.