Three Men Sentenced to Death for Killing Ubulu-Uku Monarch

DDM News

Three men have been sentenced to death by hanging for their role in the brutal murder of Obi Edward Akaeze Ofulue III, the traditional ruler of the Ubulu-Uku Kingdom in Delta State.

Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered tha the judgment, delivered by Justice M.O. Omovie of the High Court in Ibusa on December 17, 2024, brought closure to a case that has haunted the community since the monarch’s death in 2016.

The tragic incident occurred in January 2016 when the monarch was abducted by armed men along the Ubulu-Uku-Obior Road.

Despite efforts to secure his release, he was killed by his captors, plunging the kingdom into mourning.

In the wake of this devastating loss, the community crowned his then 15-year-old son, Chukwuka Noah Akaeze I, as king, ensuring continuity in leadership.

The convicted individuals—Suleiman Musa, Garba Abubakar, and Haruna—were found guilty on multiple charges, including conspiracy, armed robbery, kidnapping, and murder.

A fourth defendant, Jemilu Ahmed, received a prison sentence of five and 14 years, to run concurrently, for his lesser involvement in the crime.

Delivering her judgment, Justice Omovie noted that the prosecution had provided overwhelming evidence proving the defendants’ guilt beyond reasonable doubt.

“The court upholds that the prosecution has established beyond reasonable doubt the 10-count charge against the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th defendants,” she stated.

“The 1st defendant is hereby sentenced to five and 14 years imprisonment on the two charges against him, to run concurrently without an option of fine.

The 2nd, 3rd, and 4th defendants are sentenced to death by hanging on the neck.”

Leading the prosecution, Mrs. J.E. Odogun expressed satisfaction with the judgment,  emphasizing that justice had been served.

She detailed the events of January 6, 2016, explaining how the defendants conspired to rob and abduct Charles Afamefun Ugboh on the same day they kidnapped the monarch.

During the trial, eyewitness testimonies and other evidence confirmed their direct involvement in the crime, leaving no doubt about their culpability.

The killing of Obi Ofulue III was a harrowing blow to the Ubulu-Uku Kingdom.

The late monarch was not only a unifying figure but also a respected custodian of the community’s traditions.

His abduction and murder exposed the rising threat of violent crimes in the region, particularly against traditional leaders.

Despite the tragedy, the community displayed remarkable resilience.

A month after the king’s death, his young son was installed as the new monarch, signifying hope and continuity for Ubulu-Uku.

King Chukwuka Noah Akaeze I, though young, became a beacon of perseverance for a community grappling with the loss of its leader.

The court’s decision serves as a strong message against acts of violence and lawlessness.

While it cannot reverse the pain caused by the monarch’s death, it provides a sense of justice for his family and the people of Ubulu-Uku.

The ruling also underscores the importance of upholding the rule of law in addressing heinous crimes, offering some solace to a community that has endured immense grief.

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