Man, 20, Arraigned In Lagos Over Alleged GRA Burglary, Conspiracy & N2.015m Theft From LASPPPA Office

CYRIACUS IZUEKWE

A 20-year-old man, Ibrahim Abdulrasheed, is facing three counts before a Lagos Magistrate Court over an alleged early-morning break-in at the Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority’s office in GRA, according to a charge sheet marked CHARGE NO….MA /../2026.

The Commissioner of Police is listed as prosecutor. The document named Ibrahim Abdulrasheed ‘M’ Aged 20YRS as defendant, and refers to “others still at large” in connection with the incident. The case is being handled by the Command Tactical Squad 1, State Headquarters, Ikeja.

The alleged incident occurred on 29th March, 2026, at about 0125hrs. The charge sheet placed the event at 107 Muiz Banire Street, GRA, Lagos, within the Lagos Magisterial District.

Count I alleged conspiracy to commit a felony. Prosecutors said the defendant and others conspired to commit burglary and stealing. The offence is cited as contrary to and punishable under Section 411 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015.

Count II detailed the alleged break-in and exit. The paper alleged that on the same date, time, and place, the defendant and others broke into the LASPPPA office, committed felony inside, and broke out of the building. This is brought under Section 309(1)(2) of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015.

Count III relates to alleged theft of items and cash. The charge stated that the defendant and others stole “5 United Arab Emirates Durham” valued at Two Million Naira, a cash sum of Five Thousand Naira, and two pens valued at Ten Thousand Naira, property of LASPPPA. The total value is N2,015,000.00. The offence is cited under Section 280 and punishable under Section 287 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State.

The charge sheet named key officials and contacts. It was signed by SP Banti Adamu, O/C Command Tactical Squad 1. The Police Officer was listed as ASP Bob Peace and the complainant is Uduak Isaac.

However, the defendant pleaded not guilty. 

The prosecutor, SP Josephine Ihkayere, then asked the Court to give a date for hearing since he pleaded not guilty to enable the prosecution to prove the allegations. 

The Presiding Magistrate, Mr L.A. Owolabi, granted him bail with two sureties in like sum who must show evidence of means of livelihood and tax payment. 

The case was adjourned for mention while the defendant was remanded in custody at the Correctional Center at Kirikiri town, Lagos, pending when he will perfect his bail conditions.

The sections of law cited cover conspiracy, burglary, and stealing. Section 411 relates to conspiracy. Section 309(1)(2) relates to burglary. Sections 280 and 287 relate to stealing and its punishment under Lagos law. The charge sheet cites each section next to the alleged act.

A charge sheet is an allegation, not a verdict. In Nigeria’s criminal procedure, the defendant will be arraigned, the counts read, and a plea taken. The prosecution must then prove the allegations beyond reasonable doubt for a conviction.

GRA is a restricted government area. The alleged target, LASPPPA, is a state agency that issues physical planning permits. Cases involving government offices and foreign currency are often treated as serious property offences by investigators.

Legal experts say the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty by the Court.