September 27, 2024
The Kwara State Government has expressed its approval of the recent court ruling that sentenced five suspects involved in the Offa bank robbery to death. The government hailed the judgment as a “triumph of good over evil.”
In a statement released on Thursday, Commissioner for Communications, Mrs. Bolanle Olukoju, stated, “We breathe a sigh of relief at the judgment of the State High Court, which convicted the five criminals involved in the armed robbery in Offa.”
Justice Haleema Salman sentenced the five men to death by hanging for their roles in the robbery that occurred on April 5, 2018. The convicted individuals are 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 began.
The five suspects faced charges that included conspiracy, culpable homicide, illegal possession of firearms, and armed robbery. Despite pleading not guilty, the court found substantial evidence against them, including confessions and video clips showing their involvement.
During the robbery, at least 32 people, including nine police officers, lost their lives, and a police station was also attacked. The trial lasted over six years, with the judge stating that the evidence against the convicts was overwhelming.
In her judgment, Justice Salman emphasized that their contradictory alibis were unconvincing and described their defense as a desperate attempt to cover up their actions. She stated, “Once a person is present at the scene of a crime, such a person is culpable.”
In addition to the death sentence, each convict received a three-year prison term for illegal possession of firearms.
The Kwara State Government described the incident as a tragic event in the state’s history, stating that justice has been served for the victims and their families. They praised the court for its firm decision and commended the legal team for their dedication to the case.
The defense counsel expressed intentions to appeal the judgment, indicating that the outcome was expected.
The Kwara State Government reiterated its commitment to ensuring that such violent actions will not be tolerated and that the law will prevail against those who engage in criminal behavior.
