The Offa robbery incident, which occurred in 2018, has finally seen justice served.
Five individuals involved in the heinous crime have been found guilty of illegal possession of firearms, armed robbery, and culpable homicide.
Justice Haleemah Salman of the Kwara State High Court delivered the verdict, sentencing the convicts to death by hanging.
The judgment came after a six-year trial that drew widespread attention.
The incident, which took place at five banks in Offa Local Government Area, left no fewer than 32 people dead, including nine police officers, two of whom were women.
The convicted individuals include Ayoade Akinnibosun, Azeez Salahudeen, Niyi Ogundiran, Ibikunle Ogunleye, and Adeola Abraham.
A sixth suspect, Michael Adikwu, a retired police officer, died in custody before the trial commenced.
The convicts faced a five-count charge, including conspiracy, culpable homicide, illegal possession of firearms, and armed robbery.
During the trial, Justice Salman carefully considered the evidence presented.
In her judgment, which spanned over four hours, Justice Salman found the accused guilty of robbing and killing innocent citizens.
She sentenced them to death by hanging for their roles in the heinous crime.
Additionally, the court imposed a three-year prison sentence on the convicts for illegal possession of firearms, in line with Nigeria’s penal code.
Justice Salman remarked, “The convicts acted contrary to the law and allowed their connections with those in power at the time to lead them astray.”
Lead prosecution counsel, Rotimi Jacobs expressed satisfaction with the verdict, commending Justice Salman for her thoroughness despite numerous distractions that prolonged the trial.
Defence counsel Abdullah Jimba, representing Mr. Mathias Emeribe, acknowledged that the judgment was expected.
Jimba noted that his principal was already compiling necessary documents for an appeal.
