EDE, Osun State — Drama erupted at an Osun State High Court on Monday as operatives of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) apprehended a sitting traditional ruler right inside the court premises, Zilla Naija reports.
The monarch, Oba Muideen Azeez, the Elegbedi of Egbedi, was arrested shortly after appearing before Justice Kudirat Akano on charges related to arson, robbery and alleged armed offences dating back to September 3, 2019.
Allegations Against the Monarch and Co‑Accused
Oba Azeez appeared in court together with Akeeb Azeez Abioye, Yisa Surajudeen Akolapo, Rasidi Ayandiran and Sarafadeen Abioye, who are also facing trial over an incident at a farm in Iloba, Ede Judicial Division.
Prosecutors allege that the group robbed women processing palm oil — including Wasilatu Akinola — of about ₦10 million worth of palm oil products, goats and other farm produce, while allegedly being armed with firearms and offensive weapons during the attack.
Court Proceedings and Police Testimony
During Monday’s hearing, defence counsel M. Atobatele called witnesses — including three police operatives and the palace secretary — as part of testimony before the judge.
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One police witness, Assistant Superintendent of Police Akindosu Olusoji, revealed that the monarch himself had once complained about alleged destruction on his farm, leading officers to investigate the site.
Arrest Inside Court
After Justice Akano adjourned the matter until June 17 for continuation of hearing, police operatives executed a remand warrant and arrested Oba Azeez within the court premises.
The Osun State Police Command confirmed that the arrest was carried out strictly on a court order and involved the execution of a bench warrant issued by the judiciary.
Detained at Correctional Centre
Following his arrest, Oba Azeez was taken into custody and remanded at the Ile‑Ife Correctional Centre, where he is expected to remain as the case continues through the legal process.
The development has drawn attention across the region, with many expressing surprise that a monarch could be apprehended in broad daylight inside a court hearing.
