A magistrate court in Iragbiji, Osun State, has sentenced 20-year-old Olabosipo Waliyu to two years imprisonment without the option of a fine, for stealing cocoa beans worth ₦200,000.
The convict was arraigned before Magistrate O.D. Ajiboye in Charge No. MIRA/28c/2025, following his arrest by operatives of the Osun Amotekun Corps under the Boripe Command.
The stolen cocoa beans belonged to one Mr. Okunola Morufu of Gbamila Village, Iragbiji.
Led by Mr Oyedele Akintayo, the prosecution brought a one-count charge of stealing against the defendant, who pleaded guilty.
The court accepted the plea and the facts presented, leading to an immediate conviction.
In her ruling, Magistrate Ajiboye described Waliyu as a habitual offender, recalling that he had been convicted of a similar offence earlier in 2025.
She said, “In that previous case, he was sentenced to one year in prison with a ₦50,000 fine — a fine paid by a good Samaritan. However, upon his release, he returned to crime by committing the same offence again.
“This defendant is a serial offender, and the court must act to protect society and deter others.
“A custodial sentence without the option of a fine is the appropriate response.”
The convict was immediately remanded to begin serving his 24-month sentence.
Reacting to the judgment, Yusuf Idowu Abass, Public Relations Officer of the Osun Amotekun Corps, praised the court’s decision.
He urged residents to remain security-conscious and to support law enforcement by reporting suspicious movements.
“This conviction shows that crime does not pay. Our communities must work hand in hand with security agencies to keep Osun safe,” Abass added.
Amotekun Corps reiterated its resolve to rid the state of repeat offenders and ensure that justice is served swiftly and fairly.
