Ondo houseboy sentenced to death for employer’s murder

2026-03-25 - 15:13

By Dayo Johnson, Akure The High Court of Justice in Ondo State has sentenced 21-year-old Emmanuel Akpan to death by hanging for the murder of his employer, Mrs. Febisola Caroline Adedayo. The court found that Akpan inflicted fatal machete cuts on Adedayo’s neck, causing her death. He and another suspect, Goodness James Akpe, were arrested on March 29, 2021, at Ifakanbale Street, Sabo, Ondo Town, following the killing. Investigations revealed that the suspects allegedly killed Mrs. Adedayo to steal valuables, including ATM cards, phones, and a generator, and attempted to burn the house to destroy evidence. The case, filed by the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Ondo State, contained two counts: conspiracy to commit murder and murder, contrary to Sections 324, 316, and 319(1) of the Criminal Code, Cap 37, Laws of Ondo State, 2006. Delivering judgment in Charge No: AK/57C/2022, Hon. Justice Rotimi Olamide held that the prosecution proved Akpan’s guilt beyond reasonable doubt. The judge described the act as “cruel, inhuman and undeserving of mercy,” especially given that the deceased had previously assisted Akpan. Justice Olamide cited Akpan’s confessional statement and consistent witness testimonies as key evidence. The court dismissed the defendants’ denial, noting contradictions in their claims and the implausibility of Akpan’s account of his arrest. While Akpan was convicted and sentenced to death, the court discharged and acquitted the first defendant, Goodness James Akpe, due to insufficient evidence linking him directly to the killing. The judge pronounced the sentence on Akpan, stating: “The sentence of the court upon you, Emmanuel Akpan, is that you be hanged by the neck until you be dead, and may the Lord have mercy on your soul.”