Edo Special Court Sentences 3 Men, 1 Woman To Death By Hanging For Kidnapping, Cultism

Edo Special Court Sentences 3 Men, 1 Woman To Death By Hanging For Kidnapping, Cultism


Habiba Sam 

Barely three months after it was established, the special Edo State High Court sitting in Benin City dedicated to kidnapping, cultism and other violent crimes on Tuesday sentenced three men and a woman to death by hanging for kidnapping and membership of a secret cult.

The judgment, which lasted over three hours, was delivered by Justice T. A. Momodu on an 11-count charge preferred against the convicts.

The condemned persons are Marvelous Isaac, 32; Wisdom Michael, 36; Rufus Michael, 30; and Gift Raphael, 27.

The special court was set up following a brazen daylight kidnapping and robbery incident at the popular Vegetable Market off Airport Road, Benin City.

Days after the incident, and at the request of Governor Monday Okpebholo, the Chief Judge of Edo State, Justice Andrew Okungbowa, dedicated two courts to handle kidnapping, cultism and other violent crimes. The suspects arrested in connection with the vegetable market incident became the first to be arraigned before the special court.

During trial, the prosecution called seven witnesses and tendered seven exhibits to prove allegations bordering on kidnapping, armed robbery, illegal possession of firearms, conspiracy and membership of a secret cult, among others.

The court relied heavily on Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) footage which provided crucial evidence that aided the police in detecting and proving the crime.

Delivering judgment, Justice Momodu emphasized the importance of CCTV in crime detection and prevention in an era where crime has become sophisticated.

He said: “In this age, crime has become sophisticated. I encourage all residents to acquire and install CCTV cameras in their homes, shops, vehicles and business premises. It is no longer a luxury but a necessity for security. I call on the government of Edo State to encourage citizens in this regard through enlightenment and where possible, by providing CCTV cameras in public places like markets, parks and public institutions as it greatly helps in the detection of crime and maintenance of public order.

“I must also thank the Nigerian police for their efficiency, diligence and prompt investigation which led to the arrest of the defendants in this notorious vegetable kidnapping case.”

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