Lawyer Arraigned for Forgery in Ondo State

On August 30, 2024, a legal practitioner named Olusegun Agunloye found himself in legal trouble as he was arraigned before the Chief Magistrate Court in Akure, the capital of Ondo State. The allegations against him revolve around the serious crime of forgery, specifically concerning the presentation of a fraudulent testamentary document, commonly known as a Will.

Agunloye, 49, faces two charges: conspiracy and forgery. The police prosecutor, Nelson Akintimehin, detailed the events that led to the arraignment, stating that the alleged crime occurred on September 7, 2023, at approximately 10:30 AM. The accused is alleged to have submitted a counterfeit Will of the late Benjamin Ejelonu to the probate registry at the High Court in Akure.

The prosecutor further alleged that Agunloye conspired with Aminat Bakare, a sister of the deceased, who is currently undergoing trial on related charges in the same court. The objective of this conspiracy was said to be the fraudulent intent to deceive and defraud Oluwamodupe Ejelonu, the rightful heir.

According to the prosecutor, this act violated Sections 516 and 467(2)(f) of the Criminal Code Law of Ondo State, 2006, which address conspiracy and forgery, respectively.

During the court proceedings, Olusegun Agunloye pleaded not guilty to both charges. The prosecutor requested an adjournment to allow for the gathering of witnesses and to consolidate the charges against the defendant.

In contrast, Agunloye’s defense counsel, Kehinde Osadugbe, argued for the defendant’s bail, claiming that Agunloye was merely performing his duties as a practicing lawyer when the alleged offense took place. Osadugbe sought bail on self-recognizance, pointing out Agunloye’s professional standing as a reason for his reliability.

However, the prosecutor countered this argument by stating that Agunloye posed a flight risk if released on bail. He highlighted that the defendant had previously misused administrative bail granted to him during police investigations.

In light of the arguments presented, Magistrate Kolawole Aro granted Agunloye bail set at N2 million, requiring two sureties of equal value. The case has been adjourned until September 2024 for hearing and further consolidation of the charges. Despite the bail being granted, Agunloye was unable to meet the bail conditions and was subsequently remanded in police custody.

This case serves as a reminder of the legal challenges that can arise within the profession and the serious implications of fraudulent activities in legal practice. As the proceedings continue, the outcome will be closely monitored by the legal community and the public alike.