Court Sentences Three to Death by Hanging for Kidnapping, Rape in Kwara

A Kwara State High Court sitting in Ilorin has sentenced three men to death by hanging for offences bordering on kidnapping, armed robbery, and rape.

The convicts, Patrick Afedia Adams, Tijani Usman, and Ahmed Muhammad, were found guilty of attacking a farmer and his wife at their farm in Ilorin. The identities of the victims were withheld to protect their privacy.

Delivering judgment, Justice Funsho Lawal held that the defendants were guilty on a four-count charge of conspiracy, armed robbery, kidnapping, and rape.

The court heard that on June 15, 2025, at Kanjile village near the Kulende area of Ilorin, the convicts, armed with cutlasses and an axe, invaded the victims’ farm, robbed them of their valuables, and abducted them.

Justice Lawal ruled that the defendants were jointly liable for conspiracy, armed robbery, and kidnapping. However, Tijani Usman was separately found guilty of rape and sentenced to an additional 20 years imprisonment.

For armed robbery, the court sentenced the convicts to life imprisonment, while the offence of kidnapping attracted the death penalty by hanging. Tijani Usman received an extra 20-year jail term for rape.

According to the court, the convicts demanded a ransom of N5 million while holding the victims hostage. The money was transferred into the wife’s bank account, but only N4,000 was withdrawn before the suspects were arrested by the police.

In a disturbing account, the court revealed that the victims were tied with ropes, after which Tijani Usman raped the woman.

Justice Lawal stated that the prosecution proved the offence of rape beyond reasonable doubt through medical reports and other corroborating evidence, including the confession of the convict.

The court informed the convicts of their right to appeal within the time prescribed by law.

Speaking after the judgment, counsel to the convicts, Mr Adebayo, described the ruling as a reflection of the court’s diligence and a step toward ensuring public safety.

On her part, the lead prosecution counsel, Mrs Nagode, expressed satisfaction with the verdict and thanked the judge for his commitment to justice, praying for continued wisdom and good health.

Earlier, the convicts had pleaded for leniency, citing their age and promising to reform if given another chance.

Editor’s Note:
The names and details of the victims have been withheld to protect their privacy and dignity.

Source: Informat247