Ekiti Court Sentences Two Graduates to 30 Years for Student Kidnapping

An Ekiti State High Court sitting in Ado Ekiti has sentenced two university graduates to a combined 30 years in prison for the kidnapping of a student from the Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE).

The convicts, whose names were withheld by the court for legal reasons, were each handed 15 years imprisonment after being found guilty of abducting the student and demanding ransom from the victim’s family.

Presiding Judge, Justice John Adeyeye, delivered the verdict on Thursday, describing the crime as “a grave threat to education and public safety.” He said the sentencing was aimed at sending a strong message to those who think academic status is a shield from legal consequences.

“These individuals were trusted with education and opportunity, but chose crime. This court will not tolerate any act that undermines the safety of our young people or the institutions that shape their future,” Justice Adeyeye declared.

ALSO READ: Gaza Faces Catastrophe: WHO Warns of Famine Amid Aid Blockade 

The incident, which occurred in early 2023, involved the armed abduction of the FUOYE student in broad daylight near the university’s campus. Following intense investigations by the Ekiti State Police Command, the suspects were tracked and arrested.

Prosecutors presented evidence including phone records, ransom communication logs, and testimonies from eyewitnesses and law enforcement personnel. The defense’s attempt to argue a lack of intent was dismissed by the court, which found overwhelming proof of premeditated criminal action.

The case has sparked renewed concern over the safety of students in higher institutions across Nigeria, where rising incidents of campus-related crimes have led to widespread demands for tighter security.

Also Read: Amnesty International Reports Deadly Separatist Attack in Southeastern 

Reacting to the judgment, a representative from FUOYE’s Students’ Union called it “a partial relief” and urged the government to “invest in campus security and surveillance technology to deter such crimes in the future.”

The convicts are expected to serve their sentences at the Ado Ekiti Correctional Centre, with no option of fine.

Also Read: FINAL YEAR EKSU STUDENT FAKES OWN KIDNAP TO SPEND TIME WITH BOYFRIEND - POLICE ARREST HER