Ikorodu Cable Theft: 40-Year-Old Seun Olakunle Remanded in Prison Over ₦3 Million Electrical Cable Theft
In a disturbing case that highlights the ongoing struggle with property theft in Lagos State, a 40-year-old man identified as Seun Olakunle has been remanded in a correctional centre following his arrest and confession to stealing electrical cable worth an estimated ₦3 million. The case was brought before the Ikorodu Chief Magistrates’ Court on Monday, June 23, 2025, where Chief Magistrate B.A. Sonuga ordered Olakunle’s remand after he pleaded guilty to the charge of theft.
This latest development has sparked public interest, particularly in the Ikorodu community, as it reflects growing concerns about home invasions, vandalism, and infrastructure theft across the state. The gravity of the crime, coupled with the high value of the stolen materials, has triggered wider conversations about neighborhood security, law enforcement responses, and the application of Lagos State's criminal laws.
Details of the Crime
According to Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Aminu Isaac, who is the prosecuting officer in the case, the theft took place in the early hours of Wednesday, June 19, 2025, around 6:00 a.m. The incident occurred at No. 5 Aliqoda Street, located in the Oreyo area of Ikorodu, Lagos State.
ASP Isaac explained to the court that the defendant, Seun Olakunle, unlawfully entered the private residence of the complainant, Mr. Olawale Abimbola, and proceeded to steal an electrical cable installed on the property. The cable, according to court documents, is valued at a substantial ₦3,000,000.
The prosecutor further emphasized that the defendant did not have any form of authorization or permission to access the premises, making the act a clear case of unlawful entry and criminal theft.
Legal Framework: The Charges Against Olakunle
The charges leveled against Seun Olakunle fall under Sections 307(2), 339, and 287 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015:
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Section 307(2) deals with unlawful breaking and entry into another person’s property.
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Section 339 relates to the act of criminal trespass with intent to commit an offence.
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Section 287 covers stealing and prescribes penalties for theft under Lagos State laws.
Together, these charges indicate that Olakunle is facing serious legal consequences, especially given his admission of guilt. The law treats theft of high-value items such as electrical infrastructure with particular severity, especially when it involves forced or unauthorized entry.
The Court's Ruling and Next Steps
Chief Magistrate B.A. Sonuga, after listening to the facts presented by the prosecution and the defendant’s guilty plea, ruled that Olakunle should be remanded in a correctional centre pending the outcome of further judicial proceedings.
The case has been adjourned to July 17, 2025, when the court will review the facts of the case in detail and deliver final sentencing. The remand order ensures that Olakunle remains in custody until the sentencing date, given the seriousness of the crime.
Reactions from the Community
The news of the theft has drawn mixed reactions from residents of the Oreyo area and broader Ikorodu community. Some residents expressed shock over the value of the stolen cable and how such crimes could be committed so early in the day, indicating a possible lapse in neighborhood security.
A resident who spoke to NaijaRush under anonymity said:
“The fact that someone can come into another person’s house and steal something worth millions shows how desperate things have become. We need more street patrols and better lighting in this area.”
Another local resident, Mrs. Kikelomo Adetunji, added:
“₦3 million worth of cable is not small. That is enough to wire a whole building. These thieves are targeting building sites and homes under construction. The government and police need to act fast.”
The Rising Trend of Cable Theft in Lagos
This incident is not isolated. Over the past few years, cable theft has become a growing problem in Lagos State. Thieves often target electrical cables, transformers, and telecommunications infrastructure, reselling the components for quick cash. The consequences of such crimes are not just financial—they also affect public safety, electricity distribution, and infrastructure development.
Security experts warn that cable theft poses a major risk to the state’s infrastructure goals and urge for more proactive measures, including community policing, CCTV installations, and stiffer punishments to serve as deterrents.
The Legal Implications: What Lies Ahead for Olakunle?
Since the accused, Seun Olakunle, has pleaded guilty, he is likely to face a swift sentencing on the adjourned date. Under the Lagos State Criminal Code, a person found guilty of stealing and unlawful entry may face years of imprisonment, especially when the stolen property is of such high value.
Legal experts say the court will consider multiple factors during sentencing:
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The value of the stolen item (₦3 million)
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The intent and planning behind the theft
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The confession and plea of guilty, which may count as a mitigating factor
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The defendant's criminal history, if any
While a guilty plea sometimes results in a reduced sentence, the court may still impose a deterrent punishment given the economic impact and growing frequency of such crimes.
Conclusion
The case of Seun Olakunle is another example of the complex issues surrounding urban theft, economic hardship, and the criminal justice system in Nigeria. As the July 17 sentencing date approaches, all eyes remain on the Ikorodu Magistrates’ Court to see how justice will be served.
For the residents of Oreyo and beyond, this incident is a wake-up call to strengthen neighborhood watch groups, invest in surveillance, and report suspicious activity promptly.
NaijaRush will continue to monitor this case and provide updates as they unfold.
