Osun judiciary defends death sentence for chicken thieves  

The Osun State Judiciary has defended its stance on the death sentence handed to Segun Olowokere and Sunday Morakinyo, convicted in 2014 for armed robbery, dismissing public criticism as misinformation.

In a statement released on Thursday, Chief Registrar F. I. Omisade described claims that the pair were sentenced for stealing a single fowl as a distortion of facts.

“The convicts were part of an armed robbery operation targeting a poultry farm and other victims,” he explained.

The robbers were apprehended in Oyan, Osun State, in 2010. Reports revealed they used firearms during their operations, leading to their prosecution and subsequent conviction by the High Court in Ikirun.

“Luck ran out on them in April 2010 when they were caught in action while robbing a poultry farm. Arms were recovered from them. They equally confessed to committing several armed robberies,” the statement added.

The judiciary clarified that both individuals, aged 18 and 19 at the time, were found guilty of multiple armed robbery charges after a trial spanning over a year.

READ ALSO:Chicken Theft: Falana urges Adeleke to pardon Olowokere’s co-convict

The judge not only followed legal protocols but also recommended clemency through the governor’s office.

Social media has heightened the controversy, with many claiming that the case involves minor theft. This has gained the attention of Governor Ademola Adeleke, who hints at a possible pardon for Olowokere.

Human rights lawyer Femi Falana and other advocates have called for leniency, citing the convicts’ young age at the time of the crime.

However, the judiciary maintains its position, urging the public to consider the facts.

“These individuals were apprehended while armed, robbing unsuspecting citizens. The punishment reflects the gravity of their actions under the law,” Omisade stated.