In a recent development at the Ebute-Metta Magistrates’ Court in Lagos State, a 48-year-old man named Paul Orizu found himself arraigned by the police for allegedly stealing electrical fittings worth N500,000 from his former residence after being evicted.
Orizu is accused of repossession, breach of peace, and theft, as per charges brought against him by the police.
According to the prosecutor, Supol Chinalu Uwadione, the incidents occurred on June 22, 2023, around 9 am, at No. 12/13, Badagry Expressway, Orile-Iganmu, Lagos. Allegedly, Orizu, without court authorization, re-entered an apartment previously vacated due to a court-ordered eviction, installing his padlock after his belongings were removed.
Furthermore, Uwadione stated that Orizu's actions disrupted the peace by preventing the landlord from taking possession of the apartment. Additionally, Orizu is accused of stealing bulbs and electrical fittings valued at N500,000, property belonging to Mr. Lawrence Abayomi, the landlord.
The charges leveled against Orizu are in violation of sections 104 (i) (h), 168 (d), and 287 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State 2015.
Despite the accusations, Orizu pleaded not guilty in court. Magistrate Waliu Salami granted him bail in the sum of N200,000, requiring two sureties with evidence of tax payment to the Lagos state government and verified addresses.
This case highlights the legal complexities surrounding tenancy disputes and emphasizes the importance of adhering to legal procedures during eviction processes.
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