The Supreme Court has upheld the death by hanging sentencing on a kidnapper, Chelynor Halim, after dismissing an appeal as lacking merit.
The apex court ruled unanimously stating that the evidence against Halim was overwhelming, and his conviction, properly ruled.
The case dates back to February 9, 2014, when Halim and accomplices kidnapped ons Joan Osemene in Ibusa, Delta State, the victim testifying that she was assaulted, threatened with a gun, and rendered unconscious with a substance before her ATM card and cash were stolen.
Delivering judgment in suit number SC/CR/913/2026 on Friday, Justice Chioma Nwosu‑Iheme said that there was no doubt about the appellant’s identity as one of the gang members, and that the evidence adduced at the trial established his presence at the scene of the crime.
The victim eventually escaped and identified Halim when he posed as a motorcyclist, but was apprehended by bystanders and handed over to the DSS, leading to a raid on the gang’s hideout where their leader, Edozie Obude, was killed in a shootout.
The Supreme Court’s ruling not only affirms the conviction of the transgressor but also sends a strong message about the gravity of kidnapping offences in Nigeria.
By upholding the death sentence, the apex court underscores the need for deterrence and reinforces the judiciary’s role in combating the rising wave of abductions nationwide.