A High Court sitting in Ilorin has sentenced six men to 10 years’ imprisonment each for cultism and other related offences, in a ruling that underscores the judiciary’s stance against violent crime in Kwara State.
The convicts, led by Kale Bayero, were prosecuted on multiple charges including criminal conspiracy, cultism, mischief, and disturbance of public peace. The presiding judge, Justice A.O. Akinpelu, found them guilty after concluding that the prosecution proved its case beyond reasonable doubt.
During the trial, the prosecution, represented by Chief State Counsel Issa Zakari from the Kwara State Ministry of Justice, presented evidence linking the defendants to cult-related disturbances. Items tendered before the court included mobile phones and a Honda Accord vehicle allegedly used in the course of the crimes.
Witness testimonies also played a critical role in securing the conviction. Four witnesses, including law enforcement officers and community representatives, gave accounts detailing how the activities of the group disrupted peace in several parts of Ilorin.
The affected areas identified during proceedings included Eruda, Baboko, and Alapata communities, where residents had reportedly faced recurring threats linked to cult violence and related criminal acts.
Although the defendants initially faced broader allegations such as armed robbery and attempted culpable homicide, the court ultimately convicted them on charges sufficiently established by the evidence presented.
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In its judgment, the court sentenced each of the six convicts to 10 years in prison for cultism. Additional sentences ranging from two years to six months were handed down for conspiracy, mischief, and breach of peace, with all terms ordered to run concurrently.
Justice Akinpelu noted that the judgment should serve as a deterrent to others involved in cultism, while also reaffirming the commitment of the justice system to restoring order and protecting communities across Kwara State.
