Fake taxi drivers arraigned in Abeokuta for robbing passengers of Phones Worth N899,000

In a disturbing twist to urban transportation safety, three men accused of posing as taxi drivers to rob unsuspecting passengers were arraigned on Friday before an Abeokuta Chief Magistrates’ Court in Isabo, Ogun State.

The defendants — Sunday Osisanya (45), Saheed Sodipe (42), and Isikilu Oyedele (38) — are facing an eight-count charge of conspiracy, theft, and assault after allegedly terrorizing commuters across Abeokuta from March to May 2025.

According to the police prosecutor, Inspector Lawrence Olu-Balogun, the suspects operated a criminal scheme by luring passengers into their vehicle under the pretense of being legitimate cab drivers.

Once inside, victims were reportedly assaulted and robbed of their valuable smartphones before the culprits fled.

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Among the stolen items listed in court were a Vivo phone valued at N200,000 belonging to Comfort Olanrewaju; an Itel W6004P worth N35,000 stolen from Kehinde Tiamiyu; a Samsung Galaxy A05 (N114,000) from Morolake Ibitoye; a Samsung A06 (N170,000) from Rosemary John; a Tecno Spark valued at N280,000 from Akintobi Oluwabunmi; and another Tecno Spark priced at N100,000 taken from Abosede Olude — bringing the total value of stolen property to N899,000.

The most harrowing account came from Olanrewaju, who alleged she was violently pushed out of the moving vehicle after being robbed, prompting prosecutors to include assault among the charges.

The offenses contravene Sections 516, 390(9), and 252 of the Ogun State Criminal Code Law, which cover conspiracy to commit felony, stealing, and assault causing harm.

All three defendants pleaded not guilty to the charges. Magistrate Dr. Babajide Ilo granted bail to the accused at N500,000 each, with two sureties in like sum. One surety must be a relative and own a developed property within Abeokuta jurisdiction.

The case was adjourned to June 6 for hearing. As the trial unfolds, residents across Ogun State are calling for increased vigilance and security reforms to protect commuters from growing cases of crime disguised as everyday transport services.