An Islamic cleric, Kabiru Ibrahim, has been sentenced to death by hanging for the murder of his client, Lukman Adeleke, in Osun State. The judgment was delivered by Justice Lateef Adegoke of the Osun State High Court sitting in Iwo.
Ibrahim, who served as a spiritual consultant to the deceased, was found guilty of conspiracy, murder, and theft, charges contrary to Sections 324, 319(1), and 390 of the Criminal Code, Cap. 34, Laws of Osun State.
According to a statement from the Information Officer of the Ministry of Justice, Opeyemi Bello, the prosecution led by Abiodun Badiora successfully proved its case beyond reasonable doubt. The court consequently sentenced Ibrahim to seven years imprisonment for theft and death by hanging for murder.
Details of the Crime
The prosecution revealed that Adeleke had approached Ibrahim for spiritual consultation regarding his plans to purchase a plot of land. The cleric reportedly instructed Adeleke to bring the money meant for the land purchase for an overnight prayer before proceeding with the transaction.
Following this meeting, Adeleke's family reported him missing. A search party was organized, and investigations revealed that Adeleke was last seen visiting Ibrahim for prayers.
In his ruling, Justice Adegoke emphasized that the prosecution had established all elements of the crimes beyond reasonable doubt, leaving the court with no option but to find the defendant guilty as charged.
The case has drawn significant attention in Osun State, highlighting concerns about trust and safety in spiritual consultation practices.
