Ekiti Court Sentences Seven Individuals to Death Over Armed Robbery and Cult-related Crimes

An Ekiti State High Court sitting in Ado-Ekiti has handed down death sentences to seven individuals convicted of conspiracy, armed robbery, and activities linked to a secret cult organization. The ruling, delivered in the state capital, marks a significant judgment aimed at curbing violent crimes across the region.

The convicted individuals — Oyebanji Jimoh (32), Jimoh Azeez (32), Bolaji Ayodele Stephen (32), Ibrahim Alausa (33), Olorunfemi Busayo (32), Adeniyi Adewumi (30), and Idowu Sunday (32) — were brought before Justice Adekunle Adeleye on January 28, 2020. They faced a five-count charge that included criminal conspiracy, armed robbery, and confirmed membership in a proscribed secret cult.

During the proceedings, the prosecution presented evidence detailing the defendants’ involvement in coordinated robbery operations as well as their roles within a cult group operating in the state. The court noted that the magnitude of the offenses, coupled with the threat posed to community safety, warranted the maximum penalty under the law.

Justice Adeleye emphasized that violent crimes, especially those involving weapons and criminal gangs, continue to pose severe dangers to residents. He added that the court’s decision reflects a commitment to ensuring justice and discouraging further criminal activities.

The defendants, after being found guilty on all counts, were sentenced to death as prescribed by the relevant provisions of the state’s criminal laws.

This judgment underscores the Ekiti State judiciary’s stance on combating insecurity, with authorities reaffirming their commitment to eliminating cultism and armed robbery through strict legal enforcement.