A man identified as Sunday Ejoh has bagged six months in prison for stealing three tubers of yam.
News About Nigeria reports that Ejoh, an aluminum worker based in Okinni, Osun State, was Monday sentenced to a six-month jail term on Monday by an Osun State Chief Magistrates’ Court sitting in Osogbo for stealing three tubers of yam.
Ejoh was brought before Magistrate Mr M. Olatunji and had been arraigned on one count of theft of the yam, valued at N3,000.
Speaking to the court on the matter, the prosecutor in charge, Mr Jacob Akintunde, said, “Ejoh, on September 22nd, 2024, did steal three tubers of yam valued at N3,000 belonging to one Oluwole Durojaye.”
According to the prosecutor, the stolen tubers, a cutlass, and a pair of slippers were recovered from the defendant.
He also added that the offence committed by Ejoh was contrary to and punishable under “Section 390(9) of the Criminal Code Cap 34 Vol. II Law of Osun State, Nigeria 2002.”
When asked if he was guilty, the artisan, who had no legal representation, pleaded guilty, stating that hunger had compelled him to commit the crime.
Ejoh said, “I was hungry, and I have a family.”
Delivering judgment on the matter, Magistrate Olatunji found the defendant guilty and subsequently sentenced him to six months imprisonment with an option of a N25,000 fine.”
Olatunji directed that the stolen yam should be returned to the owner.
He also warned Ejoh not to engage in such acts again, noting that instead of stealing from others, he should endeavour to give his best to his craft as an aluminum worker.
