Two Men Arraigned In Lagos Over Alleged N35m Phone Theft From Slot Systems At Ikeja

According to the charge sheet marked 120/13/68/8, the Commissioner of Police is prosecuting the defendants on two counts contrary to the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015.

The prosecution told the court that the incident occurred on June 2, 2026, at about 1:30pm at Ikeja, within the Lagos Magisterial District.

In Count One, the defendants, Nomayo Oliver, Igbayima Solomon, and others said to be at large, were alleged to have conspired among themselves to commit felony, to wit: stealing. The offence is contrary to and punishable under Section 411 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State of Nigeria, 2015.

In Count Two, the prosecution alleged that on the same date, time and place, the defendants stole one hundred and fifty (150) packs of phones valued at Thirty-Five Million Naira, N35,000,000.00, property of Slot Systems Nigeria Limited. The offence is contrary to Section 280(1)(a)(b) and punishable under Section 287 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State of Nigeria, 2015.

Court documents indicate that the matter was filed by the Directorate of Public Prosecutions, DPP, Lagos State Ministry of Justice, Ogba. The investigation was handled by the Command Special Squad II.

Section 411 of the Lagos Criminal Law deals with conspiracy to commit an offence. It provides that where two or more persons agree to carry out an unlawful act, they are guilty of conspiracy. Section 280 defines stealing, while Section 287 prescribes punishment for stealing. Under the law, stealing is punishable with terms of imprisonment depending on the value of the property stolen and the circumstances of the case.

However, the defendants pleaded not guilty.

The Prosecutor, SP Phillip Ademigbuji, asked the Court to give a date for hearing to enable the Police to prove the allegations.

The presiding Magistrate, Mrs. O. Kasunu, granted them bail with sureties who must show evidence of means of livelihood and tax payment.

The matter was adjourned for mention while the defendants were remanded in custody at the Correctional Centre at Kirikiri town pending the perfection of their bail conditions.

The alleged theft of large quantities of mobile phones from retail outlets has become a concern for businesses in Ikeja, which is one of Lagos’ major commercial hubs. Ikeja hosts several electronics markets and corporate offices, including that of Slot Systems Nigeria Limited, a major distributor and retailer of phones and accessories in the country.

Security experts say organized theft of electronics often involves planning, logistics, and distribution networks, which is why the law treats conspiracy as a separate offence. The Nigeria Police Force has in recent times increased surveillance and intelligence gathering around major markets in Lagos to curb the trend.

Business owners have also been advised to strengthen inventory controls, install CCTV, and work closely with the Police to report suspicious activities. The Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry has repeatedly called for better protection of businesses against theft and burglary, noting that losses affect jobs, investments, and consumer confidence.

Legal observers note that for a charge of stealing under Section 287, the prosecution will be required to prove ownership of the items, value, and that the defendants dishonestly took the property without consent. In cases where the value exceeds N1,000,000, the penalty upon conviction is more severe under Lagos law.

The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty by a court of competent jurisdiction.

Authorities urged members of the public with information on the whereabouts of suspects said to be “at large” to report to the nearest Police station or contact the Command Special Squad II.

The Lagos State Government has reiterated its commitment to protecting businesses and ensuring that those involved in commercial crimes are brought to justice in accordance with the law.