Two Individuals Face Charges for Violent Assault in Ondo State

assault in Ondo”>

Incident Overview and Legal Proceedings

On August 18, 2025, at approximately 2:00 PM, an incident involving physical violence occurred at the Jerry Sawmill vicinity in Ore, Ondo State. Two men, identified as Joshua Akinitire, aged 24, and Taiwo Ogundeji, aged 25, were formally charged in the Odigbo Chief Magistrate Court for their alleged involvement in a conspiracy to assault a victim named Yahaya Ibrahim.

Details of the Alleged Crime

According to Inspector Usifoh James, representing the prosecution, the accused are alleged to have collaborated in unlawfully attacking Mr. Ibrahim. The assault reportedly included the use of a cutlass, which resulted in injuries to the victim’s fingers. The defendants appeared before Chief Magistrate Festus Akinlolu, facing charges under Sections 516 and 355 of the Criminal Code Cap. 37 Vol. 1 Laws of Ondo State, 2006.

Defendants’ Response and Court Actions

Upon hearing the charges, both defendants entered a plea of not guilty. The prosecution requested additional time to thoroughly review the case files and prepare witnesses for the upcoming trial. The defense counsel, Mr. V. A. Akinfe, did not object to this request and simultaneously filed an application for bail on behalf of the accused.

Bail Application and Court’s Decision

The prosecution opposed the bail request, expressing concerns that granting bail might lead to its misuse. Consequently, Chief Magistrate Akinlolu deferred the decision on bail to a later date. Meanwhile, the court ordered that the accused be held at the Okitipupa Correctional Centre pending further proceedings. The case was adjourned to August 29, 2025, for continuation.

Context and Legal Implications

Assault cases involving weapons such as cutlasses remain a significant concern in Ondo State, with recent statistics from the Nigerian Police Force indicating a 12% increase in violent crimes in the region over the past year. This case highlights ongoing efforts by law enforcement and the judiciary to address violent offenses and ensure justice is served.