The Death Sentences of Two Convicts in Ekiti State
In a significant legal development, two individuals have been sentenced to death by hanging by an Ekiti State High Court sitting in Ado-Ekiti. The convicts, Adejuwon Kehinde (37) and Adeniyi Dayo (35), were found guilty of multiple charges, including conspiracy, armed robbery, and stealing. Their trial began on February 13, 2023, when they were arraigned on a five-count charge.
The offenses committed by the defendants are in violation of Section 302(4)(a), 312(2)(a), and 421 of the Criminal Law of Ekiti State, 2021. These sections outline the severity of the crimes committed, particularly those involving violence and theft. The prosecution, led by Olasanmi Oluwaseun, presented a compelling case against the accused. They called three witnesses and introduced several pieces of evidence, including the defendants’ statements, a bond to produce, and a cutlass as exhibits.
The defense, represented by Barrister Lawrence Fasanmi, did not call any witnesses during the trial. This decision left the court with limited opportunity to counter the prosecution’s claims. In his judgment, Justice Lekan Olatawura addressed the gravity of the situation, emphasizing the seriousness of the charges brought against the defendants.
“I note that in the 2nd defendant’s confessional statement, he described himself as an ex-convict. One would have thought that after his experience in prison, he ought to have reformed himself. Instead, he stepped up his criminal acts and graduated from being a phone thief to an armed robber.” The judge’s words highlighted the troubling pattern of the defendant’s actions. Despite the plea for mercy from the defendants, the judge stated that the punishment for armed robbery is mandatory under the law, leaving him with no discretion in this matter.
As a result of the verdict, the court imposed the following sentences:
- On Count One (Conspiracy):Each defendant received a seven-year imprisonment sentence.
- On Count Two (Armed Robbery):The court delivered a death sentence, stating: “You be hanged by the neck until you are dead, may God have mercy on your soul.“
This outcome underscores the strict enforcement of the law in cases involving serious crimes such as armed robbery. The court’s decision reflects the legal system’s commitment to ensuring justice is served, even in the face of pleas for leniency.
Key Points from the Trial
- Charges:Conspiracy, armed robbery, and stealing.
- Legal Provisions:Sections 302(4)(a), 312(2)(a), and 421 of the Ekiti State Criminal Law.
- Evidence Presented:Confessional statements, a bond to produce, and a cutlass.
- Defense Strategy:No witnesses were called by the defense.
- Sentencing:Seven years for conspiracy; death by hanging for armed robbery.
This case serves as a reminder of the consequences of criminal behavior and the importance of the judicial process in maintaining societal order. The court’s decision sends a clear message about the severity of armed robbery and the potential penalties for those who engage in such activities.