The Nigeria Police on Monday arraigned two men before an Ado-Ekiti Chief Magistrates’ Court for allegedly engaging in the unlawful sale of alcoholic drinks without the required licence.
The defendants, Anthony Valentine, 35, and Ike Lovinous, 18, whose residential addresses were not disclosed, were charged with two counts relating to the alleged offence.
Both men pleaded not guilty when the charges were read before the court.
According to the prosecutor, Akinwale Oriyomi, the alleged offences occurred on July 31 at about 10:00 a.m. in the Olokemeji area of Ado-Ekiti.
He told the court that Valentine allegedly sold and authorised the sale of intoxicating liquor without a valid licence, contrary to the law.
The prosecutor further alleged that Lovinous also engaged in the sale and authorisation of intoxicating liquor without obtaining the necessary licence on the same day.
He said the alleged acts violate Section 35(3)(4) of the Liquor Licensing Law, Cap. 62, Laws of Ekiti State.
Counsel to the defendants, Gbenga Ariyibi and Gboyega Abiola, appealed to the court to admit their clients to bail on favourable terms, assuring the court that they would be available for trial.
Chief Magistrate Abayomi Adeosun granted each defendant bail in the sum of N50,000 with one surety in like amount.
The case was subsequently adjourned until August 27 for hearing.