Edo Court Sentences Four to Death for Kidnapping, Cult Membership

An Edo State High Court in Benin City has sentenced three men and a woman to death by hanging after finding them guilty of kidnapping and membership of a secret cult.

Justice T. A. Momodu delivered the judgment on Tuesday after more than three hours of proceedings involving an 11-count charge against the four defendants.

Those sentenced are Marvelous Isaac, 32; Wisdom Michael, 36; Rufus Michael, 30; and Gift Raphael, 27.

The case followed a daylight kidnapping and robbery at the Vegetable Market along Airport Road in Benin City. The incident prompted the state judiciary to dedicate special courts to cases involving kidnapping, cultism and other violent crimes.

The court heard from seven prosecution witnesses, while seven exhibits were tendered during the trial. The charges included kidnapping, armed robbery, illegal possession of firearms, conspiracy and membership of a secret cult.

Justice Momodu noted that CCTV footage played an important role in the investigation and prosecution, helping police establish what happened during the incident and identify those allegedly involved.

The judge urged residents to install CCTV cameras in their homes, businesses, vehicles and other properties, saying security surveillance should no longer be regarded as a luxury. He also called on the Edo State Government to promote the use of CCTV and consider installing surveillance systems in public places such as markets, parks and government institutions.

The judge commended the Nigeria Police for what he described as efficient and prompt investigation that led to the arrest of the defendants. The convictions come as Edo authorities continue efforts to strengthen the prosecution of kidnapping, cultism and other violent crimes.