Vanessa 
The trial of three individuals accused of stealing palm oil worth N7 billion from the Okitipupa Oil Palm Company has paused, following a peace intervention by Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa.
The suspects, Orimisan Adelokiki, Bose Ogunnowo, and Rachel Akinrinu, are members of the Ikale Supreme Civil Rights Council. Authorities arrested them last month during a protest against the renewal of Okitipupa Oil Palm Company’s lease.
They initially faced a seven-count charge, including conspiracy, communal war, threats to life, theft, illegal possession of arms, and breach of peace.
The court remanded them at Olokota Correctional Centre pending trial.
At the resumed hearing on Tuesday, Magistrate Damilola Sekoni granted each suspect bail of ₦500,000 and one surety. This followed a request by the Ondo State government to withdraw two of the seven charges, conspiracy and communal war.
Director of Public Prosecutions, Taiwo Olubodun, who represented the Attorney-General, said the move aimed to reduce community tension. He explained that avoiding conflict was more important than pursuing the heavier charges.
Tobi Ogunleye, counsel to the complainants, confirmed the role of Governor Aiyedatiwa and other stakeholders in calming the situation.
He said local leaders chose reconciliation over confrontation.
Peace Talks Lead to Re-Arraignment on Lesser Charges
With two charges dropped, the court re-arraigned the suspects on five counts. These include theft, threat to life, unlawful possession of charms, and public disturbance.
Magistrate Sekoni adjourned the case to June 27, 2025, for further hearing.
Adewale Adelokiki, a community elder, said leaders appealed directly to the governor. In response, Aiyedatiwa contacted retired General Olu Bajowa, who convened a peace meeting.
The meeting included protest leaders, Ikale elders, military officers, and representatives of the state government.
Adelokiki said they resolved to reopen the Ikoya Estate. This agreement led to the release of the detained protesters.
“We spoke with the governor, and he acted. Everyone came to the table. Reopening Ikoya Estate was key to releasing those arrested,” he said.
The case shows how dialogue and political will can defuse communal disputes and steer communities toward peace.
