The High Court of Justice in Ondo State has sentenced 21-year-old Emmanuel Akpan to death by hanging for killing his employer, Mrs. Febisola Caroline Adedayo.
The court determined that Akpan used a machete to inflict fatal injuries to Adedayo’s neck, leading to her death. He was arrested alongside another suspect, Goodness James Akpe, on March 29, 2021, at Ifakanbale Street in Sabo, Ondo Town, shortly after the incident.
Investigations showed that the attackers allegedly murdered the victim in order to steal items such as ATM cards, mobile phones, and a generator. They also attempted to set the house on fire to cover up the crime.
The case, brought by the Ondo State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, included charges of conspiracy to commit murder and murder under relevant sections of the state’s Criminal Code.
In his judgment, Justice Rotimi Olamide ruled that the prosecution had proven Akpan’s guilt beyond reasonable doubt, describing the act as brutal and undeserving of leniency, particularly as the victim had previously helped him.
The judge relied on Akpan’s confession and consistent witness accounts, rejecting the defence’s denial due to contradictions and lack of credibility.
While Akpan was found guilty and sentenced to death, the court cleared and released the co-accused, Goodness James Akpe, citing insufficient evidence linking him directly to the crime.
Delivering the sentence, the judge ordered that Akpan be hanged until death, adding a final remark asking for mercy upon his soul.
