An aluminium workman based in Okinni, Osun State, Sunday Ejoh, was on Monday sentenced to six months by a Chief Magistrates’ Court sitting in Osogbo, the state capital, for stealing three tubers of yam.
Ejoh, who appeared before a magistrate, Mr M. Olatunji, had been arraigned on one count of stealing the yam worth N3,000.
Giving the facts of the case, the prosecutor in charge, Mr Jacob Akintunde, said Ejoh on “September 22, 2024, did steal three tubers of yam valued at N3,000 belonging to one Oluwole Durojaye.”
The prosecutor said the stolen tubers, a cutlass, and a pair of slippers were recovered from the defendant.
He added that the offence committed was contrary to and punishable under Section 390(9) of Criminal Code Cap 34 Vol. II Law of Osun State, Nigeria 2002.
The artisan, who had no legal representation, however pleaded guilty, saying hunger made him commit the crime.
He had told the court, “I was hungry, and I have a family.”
Delivering judgement on the matter, Magistrate Olatunji found the defendant guilty and subsequently sentenced him to six months imprisonment with an option of N25,000 fine.
Olatunji also directed that the stolen yam should be returned to the owner.
