The Edo State Government has concluded its prosecution in the trial of four suspected kidnappers after calling seven witnesses before a special court established to handle kidnapping and cult-related offences in the state.
The defendants—Marvellous Isaac (32), Wisdom Michael (36), Rufus Emete Michael (30), and Gift Raphael (27)—are standing trial over the alleged abduction of a woman at the Vegetable Market along Airport Road in Benin City.
The suspects are facing a 10-count charge bordering on alleged kidnapping, armed robbery, cultism, and unlawful possession of firearms.
Leading the prosecution, the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Prof. Roland Otaru, told the court that five witnesses testified during the previous sitting, while two Investigating Police Officers (IPOs) gave evidence on Tuesday.
One of the IPOs attached to the Force Intelligence Department/Intelligence Response Team (IRT), Zone 5 Annex, tendered video recordings of the suspects’ interrogation, their written statements, and other exhibits.
Among the evidence admitted by the court were a voice note allegedly exchanged between the fourth defendant, Gift Raphael, and the alleged gang leader, Marvellous Isaac, who was also said to be her boyfriend. The prosecution also tendered a pump-action gun, an Android Camo 20 mobile phone, and a Lexus SUV, all of which were admitted as exhibits.
Defence counsel Amaechi Onwuzor and Felix Osadebamwen Imasuen cross-examined the prosecution witnesses. Onwuzor objected to the admissibility of some of the documents and said the defence would address those objections in its final written address.
Presiding Judge, Justice Aigbona Terry Momodu, adjourned the matter to Friday, July 24, 2026, for the defendants to begin presenting their defence.
Speaking after the proceedings, the Edo State Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Justice, Stephen Okoror, said the prosecution had presented substantial evidence, including the firearm allegedly used by the accused persons.
He maintained that the special court, established by the Chief Judge of Edo State, is legally constituted and dedicated to hearing kidnapping and cult-related cases, describing it as a demonstration of the government’s resolve to combat violent crime.
“The court was specially designated by the Chief Judge to handle kidnapping and cultism-related cases. It is a legally constituted court, and we believe its work will contribute significantly to tackling these crimes in Edo State,” Okoror said.
Counsel to the first, second and third defendants, Amaechi Onwuzor, who is representing them on a pro bono basis, said his responsibility is to ensure the accused receive a fair trial in accordance with the Constitution.
He expressed confidence that the court would deliver its judgment based solely on the evidence presented by both parties.
