Ondo Monarch Arraigned Over Alleged Flogging Of Villagers

The Baale of Yale Camp in Bolorunduro, Idanre Local Government Area of Ondo State, Ojo Olomolekulo, has been arraigned before an Akure Magistrate Court for allegedly assaulting villagers who resisted paying what they described as an illegal toll.

Also arraigned were two of his alleged accomplices, Isaac Oloyede and Kehinde Tope.

The three men are accused of flogging and injuring two residents, Iyabo Ajibade and Thompson Owoyemi, on December 15, 2024, following the victims’ refusal to pay the disputed toll. In a separate charge, Ojo is also accused of unlawfully selling parts of a government-owned forest reserve to two separate buyers.

They are facing charges under Sections 351, 38, and 274 of the Ondo State Criminal Code Law, 2006. All pleaded not guilty.

Defense counsel O.A. Oladunjoye requested bail for the defendants, but the prosecuting counsel, O.A. Iroaye, opposed it, arguing that the Baale posed a threat to public peace. “It is troubling that a traditional leader, meant to uphold peace, is now facing such serious allegations,” Iroaye said.

Presiding Magistrate Taiwo Lebi ordered the Baale to immediately halt all toll collection and warned against further actions that could disrupt public order. The case was adjourned to June 20, 2025, for further hearing.