A cloud of finality hangs heavy over Ekiti State as the High Court sitting in Ado Ekiti has sentenced three men to death by hanging for armed robbery. The judgement, delivered by Justice John Adeyeye, brings a definitive close to a case that has captivated the state for over five years. However, the death penalty verdict reignites the debate about capital punishment in Nigeria, with its efficacy and morality sparking renewed discussions.
A Brutal Crime, a Harsh Sentence:
The case revolves around a robbery incident that occurred on March 1, 2019, along NTA Road in Ado Ekiti, the state capital. The accused, Akingbade David, Michael Mayowa, and Ibrahim Mukaila Jimoh, were alleged to have accosted Gbenga Ajayi, a motorist, at gunpoint and forcefully taken his Toyota Corolla car.
Following their arrest, the trio were arraigned before the court on charges of armed robbery and conspiracy. They pleaded not guilty, but after a lengthy trial, Justice Adeyeye found them guilty as charged. In his judgment, the judge stated that the prosecution had presented “overwhelming evidence” that left no room for reasonable doubt. Consequently, he sentenced all three defendants to death by hanging for both offenses.
Families in Shock, Lawyers Vow Appeal:
The verdict sent shockwaves through the families of the condemned men. Their relatives expressed disbelief and vowed to challenge the judgment through the appeals process. Lawyers representing the defendants claimed the prosecution’s case was circumstantial and lacked concrete evidence. They intend to file an appeal, arguing for a lighter sentence or even an outright acquittal.
Controversy Surrounds Capital Punishment:
The death penalty verdict in Ekiti has reignited the debate on capital punishment in Nigeria. Proponents of capital punishment argue that it serves as a deterrent to potential criminals and delivers a sense of justice for victims’ families. They also highlight the cost associated with life imprisonment compared to the finality of execution.
Opponents of the death penalty, however, contend that it is a barbaric practice that does not deter crime and is a violation of the right to life. They argue that the justice system is fallible and the possibility of wrongful conviction remains. Additionally, they point out that capital punishment does not bring back victims or necessarily provide closure for their families.
Nigeria’s Stance on Death Row:
Capital punishment remains legal in Nigeria, with the death penalty prescribed for various offenses, including armed robbery, murder, treason, and kidnapping. However, executions are rarely carried out, with a backlog of condemned prisoners languishing on death row. This inconsistency in implementation raises questions about the effectiveness of the death penalty as a deterrent.
A Call for Reform: Rehabilitation or Retribution?
The Ekiti case serves as a stark reminder of the complex issue of capital punishment. Moving forward, Nigeria faces a critical decision:
- Maintaining the Status Quo: The current system of capital punishment, with its inconsistent application and ethical concerns, can continue.
- Seeking Reform: Nigeria could explore alternative forms of punishment, focusing on rehabilitation and restorative justice. This could involve strengthening prison systems to provide opportunities for education and skills development for convicts.
- Abolition: A more radical approach would be the complete abolition of the death penalty, aligning Nigeria with a growing number of countries that have moved away from capital punishment.
An Uncertain Future: Justice Served or Humanity Lost?
The fate of the three men sentenced to death in Ekiti remains uncertain. The appeal process could take years, with the possibility of a lighter sentence or even an overturned conviction. However, the case has sparked a national conversation about the purpose and application of capital punishment in Nigeria.
As Nigeria grapples with this issue, it must ensure its justice system delivers both justice for victims and upholds the fundamental human right to life.
