Ekiti man sentenced to life imprisonment for armed robbery

A 27-year-old man from Ekiti State, Alex Peter, has been sentenced to life imprisonment by the Ado Ekiti High Court for armed robbery. He also received nine years for conspiracy.

Peter was charged on December 29, 2022, for conspiracy and armed robbery. He and others allegedly stole a red Bajaj motorcycle (registration AMK 569 UJ) and N15,000 from Augustine Steven on May 16, 2022, in Ado Ekiti. Peter was armed with a cutlass and an axe during the robbery, violating sections of the Criminal Law of Ekiti State, 2021.

The victim, a commercial motorcyclist, testified that Peter hired his bike to Judges Quarters, but instead of paying, Peter and an accomplice attacked him, taking his money and motorcycle. The victim identified Peter clearly due to good lighting and reported the crime to the police.

Three days later, the victim found Peter at a restaurant, arrested him with help from bystanders, and the stolen motorcycle was recovered from Peter’s home. The prosecution presented witnesses and evidence, while the defense called none.

In delivering the judgment, Justice Adekunle Adeleye emphasized the seriousness of armed robbery and the need to deter such crimes. He noted that the defendant’s confession further confirmed his guilt. The judge urged the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement to curb criminal activities in the state.

Justice Adekunle Adeleye found Peter guilty, noting his admission to the crime, and sentenced him to life imprisonment for armed robbery and nine years for conspiracy.