The Oyo State Government, through the Oyo State Rule of Law Enforcement Authority (OYRLEA), has commenced prosecution of 13 individuals over the alleged wilful and malicious damage of government road infrastructure in parts of Ibadan.
The enforcement exercise, led by the Chairperson of OYRLEA, Hon. Justice Aderonke Aderemi (rtd.), alongside officers of the Authority, took place on Tuesday, January 20, 2026. Those arrested include Farinde Lawal, Akanji Kazeem, Abidemi Isiaq, and ten others.
The suspects were arraigned on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, before the Chief Magistrate Court, Ibadan Magisterial District, sitting at Iwo Road, on charges bordering on conspiracy and wilful damage to public property.
According to the charge sheet, the defendants allegedly conspired to damage road kerbs constructed by the Oyo State Government at Odejayi Area along Old Ife Road and New Gbagi Area, Ibadan. The offences are said to contravene Sections 516 and 451 of the Criminal Code, Cap 35, Vol. II, Laws of Oyo State, 2000.
All the defendants pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Following their plea, the presiding Magistrate granted them bail under stringent conditions. Each defendant is required to provide two sureties — one of whom must be a blood relation, while the other must be a government employee. The government-employed surety is to present evidence of a minimum bank balance of ₦200,000, a valid two-year tax clearance certificate, and proof of ownership of landed property within the court’s jurisdiction.
The case has been adjourned to February 13, 2026, for further mention.
Reaffirming its resolve, OYRLEA stated that it remains committed to protecting public infrastructure and ensuring that individuals who violate the law are held accountable through due legal processes.
The Authority assured residents of Oyo State that enforcement actions will continue to be carried out strictly within the ambit of the law to safeguard government assets and maintain public order.
E-signed:
Prince Dotun Oyelade
Honourable Commissioner for Information, Oyo State
January 22, 2026
