A Magistrates’ Court sitting in Akure, Ondo State, has ordered the remand of a 34-year-old farm labourer, John Odah, for allegedly killing his employer’s husband during a heated altercation over hard drugs.
According to court proceedings, the tragic incident occurred on April 18, 2025, at Agbajo Farm in the Ilu-Abo area of Akure North Local Government Area. Odah, who was employed by the deceased’s wife to assist with farm work, was accused of fatally attacking the deceased, Sunday Innocent, with a machete during a confrontation.
Reports revealed that Odah allegedly offered Indian hemp to Sunday Innocent while they were on the farm. However, when the deceased rejected the offer, a dispute broke out between the two men, escalating into violence. In the heat of the argument, Odah allegedly inflicted deep machete wounds on Innocent’s forehead and back, which ultimately led to his death.
Inspector Nelson Akintimehin, the prosecutor, informed the court that the defendant committed an offense contrary to Sections 319(1) and 320(1) of the Criminal Code Laws of Ondo State, 2006.
The formal charge sheet read:
“That you, John Odah, on April 18, 2025, at about 2:00 p.m. at Agbajo Farm via Ilu-Abo, in the Akure Magisterial District, did unlawfully machete one Sunday Innocent on his forehead and back, resulting in his death.”
Given the gravity of the offense, the defendant’s plea was not taken. The prosecution prayed the court to remand Odah pending legal advice from the Directorate of Public Prosecution (DPP).
Magistrate Mrs. O. Omotosho granted the remand request and directed the case file be duplicated and sent to the DPP for further action. She adjourned the case to May 30, 2025, for mention.
The tragic event has sparked concerns over drug use and violence among agricultural laborers, adding to the growing calls for better regulation and oversight in rural farming communities.
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