Court Sentences Four Kidnappers to Death by Hanging

An Edo State Special Court established to fast-track the trial of alleged kidnappers and cultists has delivered its first judgment, sentencing four men to death by hanging over the abduction of one Precious Oseghale in Benin City.

Justice T. A. Momodu found Marvellous Isaac, 32; Wisdom Michael, 36; Rufus Emete Michael, 30; and Gift Raphael, 27, guilty on an 11-count charge bordering on kidnapping, armed robbery, cultism and unlawful possession of firearms.

The case followed the alleged kidnapping of Oseghale at the Vegetable Market area along Airport Road, Benin City, on June 14, 2026.

In delivering judgment, Justice Momodu rejected the alibi defence the accused persons presented, noting they did not raise it during police questioning.

The Special Judge of Edo State established the special court following a request by Governor Monday Okpebholo on June 19, 2026, for a dedicated judicial process to fast-track the termination of cases involving alleged kidnapping and cult-related offences.

Governor Okpebholo had previously vowed that his administration would enforce the death penalty against persons convicted of kidnapping and cultism under applicable state laws.

“We are going to set up a special court to prosecute kidnappers and cultists. Within two weeks, the court is done with proceedings. I will sign your execution,” the governor had said.

He also said convicted offenders could be executed by hanging at the Ring Road roundabout in Benin City, declaring that his administration would take a firm position against kidnapping and cult-related violence.

The judgment marks the first conviction delivered by the special court since its establishment.