In a recent development, a Federal High Court in Abuja has convicted and sentenced two out of four defendants who were alleged to have kidnapped Chief Mike Ozekhome, SAN. The court sentenced Kelvin Ezeigbe and Frank Azuekor, the 1st and 2nd defendants, to 20 years in jail each.
Justice Binta Nyako, in her judgment, ruled that the prosecution had successfully proven the charges against the two defendants beyond a reasonable doubt. She further clarified that the sentenced would commence from the day of their arrest.
However, the judge discharged and acquitted Michael Omonigho and Momoh Haruna, the 3rd and 4th defendants, of the counts related to the terrorism charge. Justice Nyako stated that she found the convicted individuals to be remorseful for their criminal actions and had been in custody for approximately ten years since their arrest.
During the proceedings, the court warned Omonigho, the chief priest, to be cautious as people worshiped in his shrine within the courtroom. Omonigho responded by saying, “I have repented, my lord.”
The judge also directed that Momoh Haruna, who was at large, should be brought to court to face charges related to his escape from lawful custody, despite being discharged of other counts against him.
The defendants were initially arraigned in 2014 on charges related to conspiracy, armed robbery, kidnapping, and acts of terrorism. They were accused of kidnapping Chief Mike Ozekhome, as well as other individuals, and engaging in acts of terrorism. The prosecution had alleged that the defendants kidnapped Ozekhome and released him after a ransom was paid.
The court commended both the defense lawyer, Bala Dakum, and the prosecution counsel, Chioma Onuegbu, for their dedication during the trial.
This verdict represents a significant development in the legal proceedings against the defendants involved in the alleged kidnapping and acts of terrorism.