Justice Served: Court Sentences Two Serial Armed Robbers to Death by Hanging in Osun State

An Osun State High Court has sentenced two serial armed robbers to death by hanging.

The judgment, delivered by Justice Ayo Oyebiyi on April 18, 2024, was in response to a series of armed robbery operations carried out by the duo within the Osogbo metropolis.

Wasiu Afolayan, 36, and Kola Adeyemi, 34, were found guilty on four counts, including conspiracy, armed robbery, and unlawful possession of arms.

These charges were deemed contrary to and punishable under Section 3(1) of the Robbery and Firearms (special provisions) Act, Cap R.11, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004.

The court was informed that on December 7, 2018, the robbers targeted residents near C.A.C No. 16, Oke-Onitea Area, Osogbo, and carried out a robbery operation.

Following his arrest, Afolayan revealed Adeyemi’s involvement, leading to the latter’s arrest in the town of Ikire.

The same gang had also been involved in a robbery on November 26, 2018, in which they tragically shot and killed Olaniyi Adewale at No. 3, Oduola Street, Igbona Area, Osogbo.

During the trial, prosecuting counsel Bewaji Adeniji called six witnesses and presented several exhibits, including the extra-judicial statements made by the defendants.

Despite the defense counsel, Ayodele Olaniyan, pleading for leniency on the grounds that his clients were first-time offenders, Justice Oyebiyi found the defendants guilty on all counts and sentenced them to death by hanging.

This case underscores the commitment of the Nigerian judiciary to ensuring that those who commit heinous crimes are brought to justice.

By handing down a severe punishment, the court has demonstrated its resolve to maintain law and order and protect the citizens of Osun State.