Man Remanded At Kirikiri For Attempted Theft At Lagos Church

Published on March 15, 2023

Man Remanded At Kirikiri For Attempted Theft At Gospel Faith Mission International Church In Ayobo Lagos

On Monday, a 35-year-old man identified as Tope Akinusi, was arraigned in court for allegedly attempting to steal from a church in Lagos State. Akinusi was taken before an Ikeja Magistrates’ Court sitting in the Ogba area of Lagos State, where he was remanded at the Kirikiri Correctional Center.

According to the police prosecutor, Inspector Adeyemo Joseph, the defendant committed the crime on March 10, 2023, at the Gospel Faith Mission International Church located in the Ayobo area of the state. Akinusi reportedly hid in the church’s toilet with the intention of stealing.

The prosecutor said that Akinusi was charged with two counts of attempting to commit a felony, to wit stealing. The charges were reportedly in violation of Section 404 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015. The defendant, however, pleaded not guilty to the charges.

After his plea, the presiding Magistrate, Mrs. L. A Owolabi, ordered that the defendant be remanded at the Kirikiri Correctional Center. The case was then adjourned to April 4, 2023, for the hearing of the bail application.

Stealing in Nigeria is a crime that is taken very seriously, and it is punishable under the Criminal Code Act and the Penal Code Act. In Lagos State, the penalty for stealing varies depending on the value of the stolen property. Offenders may face imprisonment for a term of not less than three years and not more than seven years, or in some cases, both imprisonment and a fine.

The incidence of theft in churches is on the rise in Nigeria, with several reports of individuals breaking into places of worship to steal valuables or church offerings. These incidents have led to the installation of CCTV cameras and other security measures in many churches across the country. The Lagos State Police Command has also warned individuals against attempting to steal from churches, stating that such acts are punishable under the law.

It is essential for individuals to desist from criminal activities and make an honest living. The government and relevant stakeholders must also intensify efforts to provide employment opportunities and promote economic growth, which can help to reduce the incidence of crime in the society.