Ekiti Court Sentences Three to Death by Hanging

The Ekiti High Court in Ado-Ekiti has handed down death sentences by hanging to three individuals convicted of armed robbery. The ruling, delivered by Justice Lekan Ogunmoye, marks a significant development in the state’s pursuit of justice against criminal activities.

The convicts, identified as Bidemi Babalola, Oluwaseun Akinwale, and Sola Oyebanji alias Solademmy, were among five accused persons arraigned before the court on January 30, 2020. The charges included conspiracy, armed robbery, possession of firearms, receiving stolen properties, and membership in a secret cult.

During the trial, the Prosecution Counsel, Dolapo Oyewole, presented compelling evidence linking the convicts to the robbery committed on October 3, 2018, at Oke Oniyo Street, Ado-Ekiti. Witness testimonies and exhibits, including the defendants’ statements to the police, phones, wraps of Indian hemp, and a motorcycle, supported the prosecution’s case.

While the second defendant, Akinwale Oluwaseun, was acquitted of all charges, the court found Babatunde Ogunlade, Azeez Jimoh alias Asela, and Sola Oyebanji guilty as charged. In delivering the verdict, Justice Ogunmoye emphasized the gravity of their actions, particularly in the commission of armed robbery.

“The first defendant, Babalola Bidemi, though a first offender, was the one that encouraged the offence of armed robbery,” stated Justice Ogunmoye. “He is accordingly sentenced to 10 years imprisonment. The third, fourth, and fifth defendants, Oyebanji Sola, Jimoh Azeez, and Ogunlade Babatunde, are hereby sentenced to death.”

The offences committed by the convicts, as outlined by the prosecution, contravene various sections of the Robbery and Firearms (Special Provisions) Act and the Secret Cults (Abolition and Prohibition) Law. Despite their attempts to defend themselves and call witnesses, the evidence presented overwhelmingly supported the prosecution’s case.

With this verdict, the Ekiti judiciary reaffirms its commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that perpetrators of violent crimes face the full force of justice. The sentencing serves as a stern warning to those inclined towards criminal activities, underscoring the consequences of engaging in armed robbery within the state.