In a stern warning to would-be offenders, a Chief Magistrates’ Court sitting in Akure, Ondo State, has sentenced 22-year-old Emmanuel Godfrey to 18 months’ imprisonment for stealing 35 tubers of yam.

Godfrey, who admitted to the theft, claimed he stole the tubers out of hunger. But the court, determined to uphold the sanctity of private property and deter repeat offences, handed down a decisive judgment.

According to the charge sheet, the theft occurred on August 29, 2025, on a farm belonging to Sunday Chinedu in Awogbamigbe, Oba-Ile, Akure North Local Government Area. The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) arrested Godfrey after Chinedu reported the incident, noting that the accused had struck twice before.

NSCDC prosecutor T.O. Gbadebo told the court that the offence violated Sections 383(1) and (2) of the Criminal Code, Cap 37, Vol 1, Laws of Ondo State, 2006. He reminded the court that the defendant had previously been pardoned by the community for a similar offence — a mercy he appeared not to appreciate.

“The law must take its course,” Gbadebo urged, stressing the need to send a message that farm theft is a serious crime that threatens the livelihoods of hardworking citizens.

The Chief Magistrate, delivering judgment, agreed, stating that the court could not allow leniency to become an invitation for further lawlessness. Godfrey, who had no legal representation, was sentenced to 18 months’ imprisonment without an option of fine.

This ruling has been praised by some as a necessary step to protect farmers and ensure food security in the state. Others, however, have called for greater attention to poverty alleviation measures to prevent desperate crimes driven by hunger.

Either way, the message from the court is clear: property must be respected, and justice will not compromise on upholding the rule of law.