Yoruba Nation Agitator Dies in Prison Custody
A Yoruba Nation agitator, Adejumo Lateef, has died while in prison custody, according to officials of the Nigerian Correctional Service. His death was revealed in court on Wednesday during the arraignment of other suspects linked to a conspiracy and treason case in Oyo State.
Background of the Case
Lateef was one of 27 individuals facing charges of conspiracy, unlawful possession of firearms, and treason. These charges stem from an incident that took place on April 13, 2024, when members of the Yoruba Nation movement attempted to declare independence by invading the Oyo State Government Secretariat. The agitators, dressed in army camouflage and carrying rifles, charms, and Oodua Nation flags, also sought to occupy the Oyo State House of Assembly.
The group caused significant disruption as they attempted to hoist the Yoruba Nation flag before being subdued and arrested by security forces.
List of Defendants
Among those on trial alongside the late Adejumo Lateef are Adeyemo Peter, Adeyemo Joseph, Amos Oluwaseyi Ogundeji, Ayanwale Rofiat, Olalere Mathew, and Ismaila Malomo Peter. Other defendants include Fatoki Anthony, Murittala Abefe, Ismaila Adepoju, Fatunmbi Wasiu, Isaac Friday, Ayanwale Saburi, Adeola Elegbede, Ademola Adeniyi, Ogundeji Alabi, Ojo Olufemi, Ajani Ezekiel, and Ayoola David.
Also listed as defendants are Adesokan Hameed, Abiona Esther, Omoyajowo Funsho, Tola Olufemi, Oritola Alabi, Kayode Fakeye, and Taiwo Titilayo. They all face multiple charges, including conspiracy, unlawful possession of firearms, unlawful assembly, treasonable felony, and treason.
Court Proceedings
The trial is being presided over by Justice K. B. Olawoyin at the Oyo State High Court in Ibadan. Following the announcement of Lateef’s death, the court proceeded with the arraignment of the remaining defendants.
Justice Olawoyin has adjourned the case to November 6, 8, and 13 for further arraignment and hearings.
Conclusion
Lateef’s death adds another dimension to this high-profile case, which has drawn significant attention due to its connection to the ongoing agitation for Yoruba independence. The trial of the remaining defendants continues, with the court set to reconvene in November.
0 Comments