Edo court sentences four to death for kidnapping, cult membership

The Edo State Special Criminal Court on Tuesday sentenced three men and a woman to death by hanging for kidnapping and membership of a secret cult.

Justice Terry Momodu delivered the judgement in Benin City after more than three hours of proceedings on an 11-count charge against the four convicts.

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

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the decision to establish two special courts to handle such offences followed a daylight kidnapping and robbery at the popular Vegetable Market, off Airport Road, Benin, on 14 June.

Following a request by Governor Monday Okpebholo, the Chief Judge of Edo, Daniel Okungbowa, inaugurated the special court a few days after the incident.

The suspects arrested in connection with the market incident subsequently became the first persons to be arraigned before the special court.

Justice Momodu said the prosecution called seven witnesses and tendered seven exhibits to establish allegations of conspiracy, kidnapping, armed robbery, illegal possession of firearms, and membership of a secret cult, among other offences.

He said the CCTV footage tendered as evidence helped the police prove the case against the convicts.

“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 state government to encourage citizens in this regard through enlightenment and, where possible, provide 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,” he said.

The judge commended the police for their efficiency, diligence and prompt investigation, which led to the arrest of the defendants in the kidnapping case.

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Responding to the judgement, Felix Imasuen, counsel to Ms Raphael, the fourth convict, said the court had delivered its judgement, adding that his client would appeal against it.

For his part, the state’s counsel, Roland Otaru (SAN), the commissioner for justice and attorney-general, commended the judiciary for upholding the law.

According to him, justice had been served and would continue to be served in the state.

Mr Otaru said he would continue to do the right thing as the attorney-general of the state, adding that the judgement would serve as a deterrent to others involved in crimes in the state.