28-Year-Old Man Docked For Alleged Break-In At MFM Church In Amuwo

CYRIACUS IZUEKWE 

A 28-year-old man, Suleiman Abubakar, was on Thursday arraigned before a Lagos Magistrate Court sitting in Ejigbo over alleged break-in and theft at MFM Church, Region 21, Amuwo-Odofin area of the State, court documents revealed.

The prosecutor told the court that the defendant committed the alleged offences on June 1, 2026, at about 7:00am at the church premises within the Amuwo Magisterial District.

According to the charge sheet marked CR/NO Locs/0626/7291639, Suleiman Abubakar was accused of breaking and entering the church and committing felony therein, an offence punishable under the Criminal Laws of Lagos State, 2015.

The prosecutor alleged that the defendant stole children’s plastic chairs valued at N20,800, two white adult plastic chairs and one banquet chair valued at N44,000, property of Ipaye Folarin.

The theft was said to be contrary to and punishable under Section 287 of the Criminal Laws of Lagos State of Nigeria, 2015, the court document stated.

It was further alleged on the charge sheet that on the same date, time and place, the defendant willfully damaged the church property by breaking part of the wall which he used as entrance.

The damage was said to be punishable under Section 350 of the Criminal Laws of Lagos State of Nigeria, 2015, according to the legal document.

The charge sheet was signed by SP Endurance Ovwigbo, Divisional Police Officer, DPO, Ipaja Division, Lagos State Police Command.

The case file indicated that ASP Nnaubisi Ali was listed as the Investigating Police Officer, IPO, handling the matter from Ipaja Division.

When the charge was read to him, the defendant pleaded not guilty to the three-count charge before the court.

The prosecutor, Simeon Njue, asked the court to grant an adjournment to enable the Police to provide evidence and witnesses in support of the charge.

The Presiding Magistrate, Miss F.R. Ogunkoyede, granted bail to the defendant in the sum of N200,000 with one surety in like sum, who must show evidence of means of livelihood.

Sections 287 and 350 of the Lagos Criminal Law prescribe penalties for stealing and willful damage of property, legal observers said.

Church break-ins and vandalism have become a concern for religious institutions in Lagos, prompting calls for improved security at worship centres and increased police patrols.

The matter was adjourned till July 10, 2026, for mention. Authorities have urged religious institutions to report cases of theft and vandalism to the nearest Police station. Legal experts say the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty by the court.