Contrary to sensationalized reports, the conviction of Olowookere Segun and Morakinyo Sunday was not for the petty theft of a fowl, but for armed robbery and related crimes.
The prosecution, led by the state Solicitor-General, Mrs. Abiola Adewemimo, presented irrefutable evidence, including eyewitness accounts and confessions from the accused.
The case stemmed from an incident in the year 2010, when the convicts forcefully broke into the home of Mr. Balogun Tope, a police officer, armed with a cutlass and a dane gun.
They carted away valuables, including livestock, and were apprehended following their involvement in similar robberies. The evidence showed a clear pattern of criminal behaviour, including their admission to robbing another individual, Alhaja Umani Oyewo, from whom they stole broilers, eggs, and kegs of vegetable oil.
Justice Jide Falola of the Osun State High Court, sitting in Okuku, delivered a judgment grounded in the law. The convicts were found guilty of conspiracy, robbery, and stealing, with sentences proportionate to the gravity of their crimes, death by hanging for conspiracy, in accordance with Section 6(b) and 1(2)(a) of the Robbery and Firearm (Special Provisions) Act, Cap R 11, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004. Life imprisonment for robbery. Three years’ imprisonment for stealing.
The judge also showed humanity in his judgment, recommending that the governor may consider commuting the death sentence to a ten-year prison term, given the convicts’ ages and circumstances. This reflects a balanced application of the law, tempered with empathy, a situation we now witnessed been put into play by the Osun State government.
It is however disheartening to see attempts to trivialize this case by focusing solely on the theft of a fowl, ignoring the armed robbery charges and the overwhelming evidence presented in court. Such distortions risk misleading the public and eroding confidence in the judiciary. It is important for citizens to understand that the judiciary operates based on evidence and established legal frameworks, not emotion or public sentiment.
To those who care to know, the judiciary system in Nigeria cutting across the 36 sates and federal capital territory is a pillar of democracy, tasked with delivering justice impartially and without bias. So in the case of Osun State, Justice Falola’s handling of the case in question reflects the professionalism and integrity that underpin the judiciary’s work. The prerogative of mercy, if exercised, is not a repudiation of the court’s judgment but a constitutional tool for tempering justice with clemency.
Members of the public are urged to seek facts and reject narratives designed to undermine the judiciary. Trust in this institution is essential for maintaining law, order, and justice in society. Let us protect the integrity of the judiciary and support its critical role in safeguarding our democracy.
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