A 27-year-old woman and three others have been sentenced to death by hanging or lethal injection by the Edo State Special Court for Kidnapping and Cultism. Marvelous Isaac, Gift Raphael, Wisdom Michael, and Rufus Michael were found guilty of kidnapping, conspiracy, armed robbery, possession of firearms, and cultism. The case began on June 14, 2026, when gunmen abducted a woman at the Vegetable Market in Benin City.
The convicts were arraigned on an 11-count charge, and the prosecution presented evidence, including video footage linking them to the kidnap operation. Witnesses, including victims, testified before the court, and the prosecution tendered exhibits in evidence to support its case. The trial commenced on July 1, 2026, but suffered several adjournments before the court delivered judgment.
Justice Aigbona Terry Momodu delivered the judgment, finding the prosecution had proved its case beyond reasonable doubt. The judge convicted Marvelous Isaac on all 11 counts, Wisdom Michael on nine counts, Rufus Michael on five counts, and Gift Raphael on five counts. All four defendants were convicted on Count 10, which relates to kidnapping and is punishable by death.
The judge sentenced the convicts to death by hanging or through the administration of lethal injection. He also ordered that the guns used by the convicts be forfeited to the Federal Government and handed over to the police. The judgment was delivered on Tuesday, bringing an end to the trial that began in July 2026.
Counsel to Gift Raphael, Felix Imasuen, said his client would appeal against the judgment. On the other hand, counsel to the state government, Roland Otaru, commended the judiciary for upholding the law. Otaru, who is also the Commissioner for Justice and Attorney-General of the state, said justice had been served and would continue to be served in the state.
Otaru stated that the judgment would serve as a deterrent to others involved in crimes and criminality in the state. He added that he would continue to do the right thing as the Attorney-General of the state. The Edo State government's position on the matter was one of upholding the law and ensuring that justice is served.
The case highlights the efforts of the Edo State government to combat crime and ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice. The sentencing of the four convicts sends a strong message to those involved in kidnapping and other crimes in the state. The government remains committed to upholding the law and protecting its citizens.
Key points
- Four individuals sentenced to death for kidnapping and other offences in Edo State
- The convicts were found guilty of charges including kidnapping, conspiracy, and armed robbery
- The judgment serves as a deterrent to others involved in crimes and criminality in the state
