Two suspects, Lekan Osansan and Olubodun Oladimeji, have been arraigned before a Chief Magistrate Court in Akure, Ondo State, for allegedly kidnapping a police inspector, Michael Aromeh.
The duo appeared in court on a three-count charge, including conspiracy, kidnapping, and conduct likely to cause a breach of peace.
According to the police prosecutor, Martins Olowofeso, the suspects abducted Inspector Aromeh while he was in uniform at the NTA Junction in Akure and took him to an undisclosed location.
The charges read in part:
That you, Lekan Osansan and Olubodun Oladimeji, on January 12, conspired to commit the felony of kidnapping Inspector Aromeh Michael, taking him from NTA Junction to an unknown destination, thereby violating Section 516 of the Criminal Code, Laws of Ondo State, 2006.
That you, Lekan Osansan and Olubodun Oladimeji, did kidnap Inspector Aromeh Michael and were later intercepted by ASP Yahaya Ondeku and five others, an offence punishable under Section 364 of the Criminal Code.
That you, Lekan Osansan and Olubodun Oladimeji, conducted yourselves in a manner likely to cause a breach of peace by kidnapping Inspector Aromeh without his consent, contrary to Section 249(D) of the Criminal Code.
Both defendants pleaded not guilty. The prosecutor requested stringent bail conditions to ensure they remain available for trial.
Presiding over the case, Chief Magistrate R.A. Olumilua granted bail at ₦1 million each, requiring two sureties in like sum.
One must be a level 14 officer in the state civil service, while the other must be a clergyman or a recognized community chief. Additionally, each surety must deposit ₦500,000 with the court.