Prof Akinyemi’s staff bolts with N20m luxury watches, accessories

Paul Dada | Paul Agbota, a domestic staff of a former Minister of External Affairs, Professor Bolaji Akinyemi who allegedly stole watches and luxury accessories valued at N20 million, was on Thursday docked in Lagos.

He, however, entered a not-guilty plea. In her ruling, the Magistrate, Mrs Abimbola Komolafe, granted the accused bail in the sum of N1million with two responsible sureties in like sum.

She also ordered that the sum of N50,000 be deposited at the office of the court’s deputy registrar as part of the bail conditions.

Agbota, 29, who resides in Ikeja, is facing a two-count charge of conspiracy and stealing at an Ikeja Magistrates’ Court. The prosecutor ASP Eranus Nnamonu told the court that the accused committed the offences on April 23 at 5.30 p.m. at his employer’s residence at No. 3, Femi Deru Close, Opebi, Lagos.

He said Agbota conspired with others still at large to steal from his employer, Prof. Bolaji Akinyemi, a Rolex watch valued at N11million. According to him, the accused also stole other watches and luxury accessories valued at N9 million.

Nnamonu said the offences contravened Sections 285 and 409 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2011.