An 80-year-old prince from the revered Ondo Kingdom, Adefusi Adebisi, was yesterday arraigned before a Magistrates’ Court in Ondo for his alleged involvement in the destruction of ₦247 million worth of crops on a disputed piece of land. The charges, which include trespassing and malicious damage, stem from a dramatic incident that unfolded on November 25, 2024, in Omilosu, a rural community located in the Bolorunduro area of Ondo East Local Government Area.
The case has caught the attention of many, particularly due to the involvement of a member of the royal family, known for their influence in the region. According to the Ondo State Police Command, Prince Adebisi, along with accomplices still at large, forcibly entered the land of Reverend David Akinadewo-Adekahunsi, a local clergyman, and destroyed a range of valuable crops, including plantain, cocoa, kolanut, and palm trees.
The plantain, cocoa, kolanut, and palm trees were estimated to be worth ₦247 million, a substantial sum that has raised concerns within the community about the potential impact on local livelihoods.
Alleged Attack on Revered Clergy’s Property
Reverend Akinadewo-Adekahunsi, who has owned the land for many years, expressed his shock and frustration at the attack. “It was a peaceful area. I have invested so much time and resources into this land, and to see it destroyed in such a way is devastating,” he said in a brief interview following the incident.
The Reverend, known for his commitment to education and community work, further explained that the land in question was under legal dispute, but he had never anticipated that it would escalate into such violent action. “I am praying for peace in this situation,” he added. “This is not just about the trees. It’s about the peace and harmony we all seek to live in this community.”
In the legal documents presented to the court, the police prosecutor, H.A. Olagbaju, outlined three key charges against the defendant: conspiracy to commit forcible entry, malicious damage, and trespassing. The charge sheet further revealed that Adebisi and his accomplices allegedly entered the land without consent and caused severe damage to the crops, likely inciting a breach of the peace.
A Royal Involvement in the Case
The involvement of Prince Adebisi, a member of the influential Ondo royal family, has added a layer of intrigue to the case. While the prince’s advanced age—80 years—might suggest a degree of vulnerability, the seriousness of the charges indicates the deep-rooted nature of the dispute. The prince, hailing from Bolorunduro, has a history of involvement in local governance and traditional affairs, making his current legal troubles all the more newsworthy.
Adebisi, who arrived in court with a calm demeanor, pleaded not guilty to all charges. His defense counsel, Mr. E.O. Edo, argued that the prince was innocent until proven guilty, urging the court to grant him bail and allow for a fair hearing. “Prince Adebisi is an elder in our community, and he has no history of criminal activity,” Edo said. “He will attend all court hearings and is committed to resolving this matter lawfully.”
Court Proceedings and Bail Conditions
Senior Magistrate Mrs. Mike Akinbola presided over the case, granting the prince bail in the sum of ₦10 million with two sureties, each required to provide an affidavit of means and proof of tax clearance for the past two years. Additionally, the sureties must reside within the court’s jurisdiction and submit their National Identification Numbers (NIN).
The prince’s bail conditions are strict, reflecting the seriousness of the charges. The court also directed that all necessary proof of evidence be submitted before the next sitting, scheduled for March 5, 2025. As the legal process moves forward, all eyes will be on how this case unfolds, particularly as it could have significant implications for both the prince and the community at large.
Community Reactions
The local community has been divided over the incident. While some of Adebisi’s supporters claim that the prince was simply asserting his right to the land, others view the actions as a reckless abuse of power. “We can’t allow people in positions of power to think they can destroy property with impunity,” one local resident stated. “This is a huge loss, not just financially, but emotionally for the families who have cultivated those lands for generations.”
Others have expressed concern that the case could be more than just a personal dispute, potentially igniting further tensions within the kingdom. One community leader, who wished to remain anonymous, said, “If this case is not handled carefully, it could spark broader unrest in our region. People are watching closely to see what justice will look like in this situation.”
Meanwhile, legal experts have noted that the case could set a significant precedent, particularly in the context of land disputes involving influential figures like Prince Adebisi. “Land disputes in Nigeria are often fraught with tension, but when they involve high-profile individuals, it brings an additional layer of complexity,” said Lagos-based lawyer Tunde Okewale. “This case could set important legal precedents on how such disputes are handled, especially when criminal charges are involved.”