Five Sentenced to Death by Hanging for Murder of Fulani Herdsman in Osun

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An Osun State High Court in Ede has sentenced five men to death by hanging for the abduction and murder of a Fulani herdsman, Ibrahim Adamu. Despite a ransom of N3 million being paid for his release, Adamu was brutally killed by his captors.

The convicts—identified as Ibrahim Issa, Lateef Bello, Abdul Ramon Soliu, Bello Ibrahim, and Abudu Mumini Jolaanobi Saheed—abducted Adamu from his residence in Owode-Ede on April 17, 2018. They took him to an isolated location where the heinous act was committed. The accused first appeared in court on October 28, 2021, facing charges of conspiracy, kidnapping, and murder. Despite their plea of not guilty, the evidence presented was overwhelmingly against them.


During the trial, lead prosecuting counsel Moses Faremi from the Ministry of Justice provided a detailed account of the events leading to Adamu's abduction and subsequent murder. Investigating Police Officer Ganiyu Taofeek testified that Adamu recognized one of his abductors while in captivity, prompting the criminals to kill him to avoid identification.

Taofeek presented several exhibits to the court, including extrajudicial statements and a mask used by the defendants, which was found at the crime scene. He recounted how, after realizing that Adamu had identified them, Abdu Mumini directed the gang to kill him. The prosecution revealed gruesome details: Mumini took Adamu's head and heart, while Soliu took his arms, disposing of the rest of the body in the Osun River.

Despite the defense counsel Bola Ige's plea for mercy and arguments that the prosecution had not proven their case beyond reasonable doubt, the presiding judge, Justice Kudirat Akano, found the evidence compelling. The court upheld the charges of conspiracy, kidnapping, and murder, leading to the death sentences for all five defendants.

This case underscores the serious consequences of violent crimes in Osun State. The judiciary's decision reflects a commitment to justice, aiming to deter future criminal activities. The death sentences serve as a stern warning to those involved in similar unlawful acts, highlighting the state's stance on severe punishment for heinous crimes.



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