The Edo State Government has concluded its presentation of evidence against four individuals accused of kidnapping a woman at a Benin City vegetable market near Airport Road. Prof. Roland Otaru, the State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, finalized the prosecution’s case on Tuesday after calling seven witnesses before the special tribunal established by Governor Monday Okpebholo to address kidnapping and cult-related offenses.
The defendants—Marvellous Isaac, Wisdom Michael, Rufus Emete Michael, and Gift Raphael—face a 10-count charge that includes kidnapping, armed robbery, cult activities, and the illegal possession of weapons. The prosecution provided five witnesses last Friday and two additional witnesses on Tuesday, consisting of both victims and police investigators.
During the proceedings, police officials submitted significant evidence, including interrogation videos, written statements, and a voice recording featuring Gift Raphael and Marvellous Isaac. Authorities also presented physical exhibits to the court, such as a pump-action firearm, a mobile device, and a Lexus SUV. Defense counsel Amaechi Achi Onwuzor and Felix Osadebamwen Imasuen cross-examined the witnesses, with Onwuzor formally objecting to certain pieces of evidence.
Justice Aigbona Terry Momodu has scheduled the defense to begin their testimony on July 24, 2026. Stephen Okoror, the Solicitor-General, emphasized that the state remains dedicated to eliminating criminal activity through this specialized judicial process. Counsel representing the accused noted that they are fulfilling their constitutional obligation to provide a defense, awaiting the court’s final verdict based on the submitted records.
