In a decisive move, the Ondo State High Court in Akure has sentenced Abayomi Joseph to death for the gruesome murder of his neighbour, Thomas Oluwole. The tragic incident occurred in 2021 in the Ijoka area of Akure, stemming from allegations of well water poisoning leveled against the deceased’s daughter by the convict.
During a heated argument, Joseph, found guilty of the crime, attacked the 63-year-old bricklayer with a machete, resulting in fatal injuries. Following his arrest, Joseph faced a one-count charge of murder filed by the Ondo State Ministry of Justice.
Despite Joseph’s claim of insanity during the proceedings, the court, presided over by Justice O.S Kuteyi, found him guilty. Justice Kuteyi emphasized that the deliberate and violent nature of the attack, coupled with Joseph’s feeble attempt to feign insanity, left no room for leniency. Consequently, Joseph was sentenced to death by hanging.
The court’s verdict highlighted that the defendant’s attempt to use insanity as a defense was merely a ploy to divert attention from the brutal killing. Justice Kuteyi firmly asserted that the evidence presented by the prosecution convincingly proved the murder case beyond reasonable doubt, ensuring justice for the victim and his family.
