Court Sentences Azeez Akinpelu to Death by Hanging for Killing 11-Year-Old Girl in Ogun

The Ogun State High Court in Abeokuta, has sentenced 23-year-old Azeez Akinpelu to death by hanging for the crime of killing an eleven-year-old girl, Rokibat Odeyale, in Owode Egba, Obafemi/Owode local government area of Ogun State.

Akinpelu, a resident of Owode, faced a five-count charge, including conspiracy, possession of firearms, manslaughter, attempted murder, and murder. The court, presided over by Justice O.O Stanley, delivered a verdict after determining that the prosecution had successfully proven the case beyond a reasonable doubt.

Justice Stanley outlined the specific charges, citing violations of section 324, 316, 319, and 320 of the criminal code laws of Ogun, as well as sec 27(1)(b)(1) of the Firearms Act Cap Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2014.

The judge, in delivering the sentence, stated, “I hereby sentence you, Azeez Akinpelu, to death by hanging. You shall be hung until you are dead. May God have mercy on you.” Additionally, Akinpelu received a life imprisonment sentence for manslaughter and attempted murder, along with a three-month imprisonment term with hard labor for possession of firearms.

During the trial, the Senior State Prosecuting Counsel, who requested anonymity, revealed that Akinpelu committed the gruesome act on March 27, 2021, around 6:00 pm at Atala People Igbeyin, Owode Egba. The defendant, in collaboration with friends, conspired to shoot Rokibat Odeyale on the head with a local pistol during the Orile Igbeyin Day celebration.

The gunshot tragically struck Rokibat and her sister, Fatia, who sustained injuries to her hand and leg. Despite immediate efforts to rush them to the hospital, Rokibat succumbed to her injuries after being transferred to UCH, Ibadan.

When apprehended, Akinpelu was found in possession of a bag containing a locally made pistol, cartridge, charm, knife, and a padlock. The court’s decision serves as a grave reminder of the consequences for such reprehensible acts, bringing a measure of justice for the victim and her grieving family.