A Benin High Court has ordered the detention of six individuals at the Oko Correctional Centre, pending further proceedings in a case involving the alleged killing of a deaf and mute man. Justice Williams Aziegbemhin issued the remand order on Wednesday.
The defendants, identified as Joshua Edo (50), Ohio Kennedy (42), Obayuwana Happy (25), Osarumen Simon (39), Osayi Adabonyin (41), and Adagbonyin Flex (43), face an eight-count charge that includes conspiracy, murder, arson, and inciting communal violence. All six pleaded not guilty to the charges.
According to the prosecution, led by Mr. B.A. Uwadiae, the alleged crimes transpired between February 13th and February 28th in the Obazagbon Community of Benin City.
The prosecution contends that the defendants acted in concert to kill Efe Obeide, a deaf and mute man, during an attack on the community. Uwadiae stated that Obeide was fatally injured at a construction site, unaware of the ongoing communal unrest.
He further asserted that the alleged actions violate Sections 64, 242 (1), and 62 (1) (a) (b) (c) of the Criminal Law of Edo State, 2022.
Justice Aziegbemhin adjourned the hearing until March 25th. The defendants remain in custody at the Oko Correctional Centre.
