22-Year-Old Man Sentenced to Three Months for Stealing Seven Chickens in Ado-Ekiti
A Chief Magistrates’ Court sitting in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, has sentenced Sunday Gmaed, a 22-year-old man, to three months imprisonment for stealing seven chickens valued at ₦57,000.
The judgment was delivered on Friday, July 12, 2025, by Chief Magistrate Kehinde Awosika, following Gmaed’s change of plea from not guilty to guilty. Eyes Of Lagos reports,
According to the court proceedings, Gmaed initially denied the charge when arraigned on July 2, and was granted bail in the sum of ₦20,000 with one surety. However, during the resumed hearing on July 11, he admitted guilt and pleaded for mercy.
The Crime
The prosecutor, Inspector Elijah Adejare, told the court that the incident occurred on June 28 at about 9:30 a.m. at Odo village, located along Ilawe Road in Ado-Ekiti.
He revealed that Gmaed unlawfully entered a poultry farm belonging to Olaniyi Olasehinde by cutting through the protective netting. He then strangled and stole seven chickens from the premises.
The offence was said to be in violation of Section 302(1)(a) of the Criminal Law of Ekiti State, 2021.
Court’s Decision
In delivering his judgment, Magistrate Awosika noted Gmaed’s change of plea, his remorse, and appeal for leniency, but emphasized that theft must be taken seriously to discourage future crimes.
As a result, the court sentenced Gmaed to three months in prison with an option of a ₦30,000 fine.
Final Notes
This case highlights the Nigerian judiciary’s stance on property crimes, especially in rural and agricultural areas where livelihoods depend on livestock and farming. While the court showed mercy through a fine option, the sentence also sends a warning about the consequences of petty theft.
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