An Edo State High Court in Benin City has sentenced to death by hanging, three men found guilty of armed robbery, kidnapping and murder of Mr. Ephraim Akhere in Ekpoma.
The court handed down death sentence to the trio, James Monday, Kelvin Edward, and Solomon Abuede.
However, A fourth suspect, Oviasogie Sunday, alias “Alhaji of Kano,” received a life sentence for receiving stolen property belonging to the deceased.
Justice Irele-Ifijeh delivered the judgement after the four men were convicted on six counts of armed robbery, kidnapping, conspiracy, and receiving stolen goods.
Background
The crimes occurred in Ihumudumun quarters in Ekpoma, Edo state where the gang kidnapped Akhere and one Sandra at gunpoint, forcing them into Akhere’s vehicle.
Two other defendants, David Williams and Monday Ozomo, were acquitted due to lack of evidence tying them to the kidnapping and robbery.
The armed gang, riding on a motorcycle, intercepted Akhere’s vehicle while brandishing dangerous weapons, they ordered the two victims into the backseat at gunpoint of which Solomon Abuede then took over driving the vehicle.
Courts Decision
In her ruling, Justice Irele-Ifijeh stated that the kidnappers withdrew money from Akhere’s bank account using his ATM card. They then took the victims to an uncompleted building.
Subsequently, Solomon Abuede forced Akhere to ingest rat poison before throwing him down a well, leading to his death.
Sandra was given the choice of jumping into the well or drinking the poison. Solomon spared her life but raped her instead.
The judge found James Monday, Kelvin Edward, Solomon Abuede guilty of the armed robbery, kidnapping and murder charges.
Consequently, They were sentenced to death by hanging while Oviasogie Sunday was sentenced for receiving Akhere’s stolen Infinity Jeep.