Seven suspects arraigned in Ilorin over arson of traditionalist’s home

By Muyideen Aliyu, Ilorin

Seven suspects accused of conspiring to set fire to the residence of a traditional worshipper, Toyin Asabi Olorisa, were arraigned on Friday before Justice Mahmud Gafar of the Kwara State High Court in Ilorin.

The suspects, identified as Alhaji Yekini Oloruntele, Alhaji Saliu Usman, Garba Amuda Yusuf, Alhaji Mumini Showa, Imam Isiaq Raji, Alhaji Saliu Abubakar, and AbdulMumini Muhamed, are facing charges alongside others who remain at large.

The incident dates back to January 1, 2026, when a bungalow belonging to Olorisa was reportedly set ablaze while she was away on holiday.

Following the attack, the Kwara State Police Command arrested the seven individuals in connection with the arson.

The prosecution, led by Abdulmumeen Busari of the State Ministry of Justice, presented the charges during the Friday proceedings.

The court heard that the defendants intentionally conspired to burn down Olorisa’s residence, an act punishable under the State Criminal Law.

All seven suspects pleaded not guilty to the charges.

While the prosecution requested that the defendants be remanded in a correctional facility, the defense team, led by I. F. Yusuf, opposed the application. Justice Gafar ultimately granted the suspects bail, noting that they had previously been granted administrative bail by the police.

The court set the bail conditions at N2.5 million each, with one surety per suspect.

The case has been adjourned until March 26, 2026, for the commencement of the trial.