Nine years after the brutal murder of Obi Edward Akaeze Ofulue III, the traditional ruler of Ubulu-Uku Kingdom, justice has finally been served. The Delta State High Court sitting in Ibusa has sentenced Suleiman Musa, Garba Abubakar Haruna, and Umar Mohammed to death by hanging for their roles in the heinous crime.
In a judgment delivered by Justice M.O. Omovie and shared by the Delta State Ministry of Justice on Tuesday, the court found the trio guilty of multiple charges, including conspiracy, armed robbery, kidnapping, and murder. The court ruled that the prosecution had established the charges against them beyond a reasonable doubt.
A fourth defendant, Jemilu Ahmed, was convicted on two counts and sentenced to five and fourteen years in prison, to run concurrently. Unlike the others, Ahmed’s sentencing did not include an option for a fine, highlighting the severity of his crimes.
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Prosecution lead counsel, Mrs. J.E. Odogun, lauded the court’s decision as a significant victory for justice. She detailed how, on January 6, 2016, the convicted individuals conspired to kidnap, rob, and eventually murder the monarch. The evidence presented during the trial also revealed their involvement in the kidnapping and armed robbery of Charles Afamefun Ugboh on the same day.
Obi Edward Akaeze Ofulue III, a beloved leader, was abducted and later killed, sending shockwaves through the Ubulu-Uku community and the nation. The crime left the kingdom grieving and sparked years of legal battles.
The judgment not only delivers long-overdue justice for the slain monarch but also offers a sense of closure to his family and community.
As the Ubulu-Uku Kingdom reflects on this landmark ruling, the verdict serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of justice and the enduring quest to honor the legacy of a cherished ruler.
