Nigerian Singer, Iyanya Arraigned In Court For Stealing Car

Nigerian singer,  Iyanya Onoyom Mbuk, popularly known as Iyanya, has been charged for alleged car theft by the Police Special Fraud Unit (PSFU) Ikoyi, Lagos,

Recall that Iyanya had been arraigned for the offence on February 4, 2020, before Justice Mobolanle Okikiolu-Ighile of an Igbosere High Court, Lagos.

The one-count charge was filed against the singer by the police on March 15, 2019.

The arraignment has been adjourned six times, after Iyanya refused to appear before the court for arraignment, despite that he had allegedly being served with the charge and hearing notice,

During the last adjournment, Justice Okikiolu-Ighile threatened to use the power of the court to ensure Iyanya’s attendance to take his plea.

After the threat, the ‘Kurukere’ singer appeared before the judge on February 4, 2020, and the charge was read to him.

According to the prosecution counsel, Mr. Chukwu Agwu, a Superintendent of Police (SP), Iyanya had committed the offence sometimes in September 2018.

The court heard that the defendant allegedly dishonestly converted to his use or of another person, a Black Toyota Land Cruiser Prado Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) marked MAVINIY, with Chassis and Engine numbers JTEBX7FJ7EK165480 and 2TR1385954.

Agwu told the court that said vehicle belongs to ‘The Temple Management Company Ltd, represented by a lawyer, Ayodeji Olomojobi.

The offence, according to the prosecutor, was contrary to Sections 278(1) (b), 279(1)(2) and punishable under Section 285(10) of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2011.

However, Iyanya pleaded not guilty.

Agwu then prayed the court to remand Iyanya in the Nigerian Correctional Services (NCS) custody, until the hearing and determination of his bail application.

However, Iyanya’s counsel, Mr Williams A., opposed him, promising that if he is released, he will ensure he appears in court on the next adjournment.

Justice Okikiolu-Ighile granted the defence counsel’s prayer and released him to his counsel. She adjourned till February 27 and March 17, for ruling on Iyanya’s bail application and commencement of trial.