Court sentences 4 to death for kidnapping, cultism

On June 14, 2026, a woman was kidnapped at the Vegetable Market off Airport Road, Benin City. The kidnapping was carried out by suspected gunmen. The case was adjourned multiple times before the Edo State Special Court delivered a verdict on Tuesday, June 18, 2026.

The court sentenced four individuals - Marvelous Isaac, Gift Raphael, Wisdom Michael, and Rufus Michael - to death by hanging or lethal injection for kidnapping and cultism. Each of the four defendants was found guilty on multiple counts, including kidnapping, conspiracy, armed robbery, and possession of firearms.

Justice Aigbona Terry Momodu ruled that the prosecution had proven their case beyond reasonable doubt. The judge found all four defendants guilty of the charges, with Marvelous Isaac found guilty on all 11 counts, Wisdom Michael on nine counts, Rufus Michael on five counts, and Gift Raphael on five counts.

The conviction on Count 10, which pertains to kidnapping, warranted a death sentence for each of the defendants. The guns used in the crime were forfeited to the Federal Government and handed over to the police.

Gift Raphael's attorney, Felix Imasuen, announced that his client would appeal the judgment. Roland Otaru (SAN), the state's Attorney-General, praised the judiciary for upholding the law and ensuring justice was served. He vowed to continue doing what is right as the Commissioner for Justice and Attorney-General of the state, stating that the judgment would deter others from engaging in similar criminal activities.