Justice Aigbona Momodu of the Edo State Special Criminal Court has scheduled August 20, 2026, for the submission of final written addresses in the trial of four individuals accused of kidnapping near the Benin City Vegetable Market. The adjournment followed the conclusion of the defense’s case for the final defendant, 27-year-old Gift Raphael.
The accused include Marvelous Isaac, 32; Wisdom Michael, 36; Rufus Emete Michael, 30; and Gift Raphael. They face a 10-count indictment covering charges of armed robbery, cultism, conspiracy, illegal possession of weapons, and kidnapping. These charges stem from various abductions in the state, specifically a June 14, 2026, incident in Benin City.
During her testimony, Raphael denied any involvement in criminal activities. She explained that she works as a corn vendor and has been in a romantic relationship with Marvelous Isaac for three years. She testified that she believed Isaac worked as an electrician and community security officer, rather than a gang leader. She also rejected claims that she was present during the kidnapping event in mid-June.
The state’s legal team, headed by Attorney-General Prof. Roland Otaru, cross-examined the defendant before closing the proceedings. Following the session, the Attorney-General praised the court for maintaining an efficient pace in the trial, aligning with the administrative mandate of Governor Monday Okpebholo.
