Ogun man docked for allegedly diverting N5.2m rice money
Man Arraigned for Allegedly Stealing N5.2 Million from Businesswoman
A 36-year-old man, Waliu Idowu, was arraigned on charges of theft at the Abeokuta Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday. He is accused of misappropriating N5.2 million belonging to businesswoman Ademola Bilikisu.
According to court documents, Bilikisu entrusted Idowu with 198 bags of rice valued at N9.702 million for distribution to customers. However, he only remitted N4.5 million and failed to explain the remaining N5.2 million despite multiple requests for accountability.
Prosecutor Insp. Evelyn Motim presented the case, stating that the alleged theft occurred on August 10, 2026, around 5:00 p.m. in the Leme area of Abeokuta. Motim claimed that Idowu initially assured he would return the balance but later alleged that he had given the money to a worker, who then reportedly used it for sports betting.
The charge against Idowu violates Section 390(9) of the Criminal Code Laws of Ogun State, 2006. During the arraignment, Idowu pleaded not guilty.
Magistrate Mrs. O.O. Sam-Obaleye granted the defendant bail in the amount of N5 million, stipulating that the surety must be a registered bondsman with the Ogun State Judiciary. The case has been adjourned until September 10, 2026, for further hearing.
