The Court of Appeal in Akure, Ondo State, has reaffirmed the death sentence imposed on Dr. Ramon Adedoyin, a renowned hotelier, for the murder of Timothy Adegoke, a postgraduate student at Obafemi Awolowo University. This decision solidifies the earlier ruling by the Osun State High Court, which convicted Adedoyin and others in connection with the heinous crime.
Delivering its verdict on Thursday, the appellate court upheld the trial court’s judgment, dismissing Adedoyin’s appeal on the murder charges while modifying certain aspects of the original ruling. According to the presiding justices, “The judgment of the High Court of Osun State stands. Adedoyin’s appeal is dismissed in part.”
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Renowned human rights lawyer Femi Falana, represented by Mrs. Fatima Adesina, commended the judgment for its adherence to justice, particularly for sustaining the convictions for conspiracy and unlawful killing. Speaking on behalf of the prosecution, Adesina emphasized that the court’s stance on these convictions underscores the seriousness of the crime and its impact.
However, the appellate court annulled certain parts of the initial judgment, including directives that required Adedoyin and his co-convicts to bear the educational expenses of the deceased’s children. It also reversed the forfeiture of Adedoyin’s Hilton Hotel, a central location in the case, and other associated properties.
Adedoyin and others had been sentenced to death by hanging in May 2023 by the Osun State High Court following their conviction for murder and conspiracy. This high-profile case stemmed from the tragic death of Adegoke, whose body was discovered in November 2021 at Hilton Honours Hotel. Adegoke had been staying at the facility before being reported missing, sparking nationwide outrage and a legal battle that has now reached its conclusion.
This latest judgment brings closure to one of Nigeria’s most widely followed murder cases, highlighting the judiciary’s firm stance on upholding justice for victims and their families.
