By Ayodele Oni
The Oyo State Government has affirmed that it will not appeal against the judgement of a federal high court in Abuja, which sentenced three accused persons to life imprisonment after finding them guilty of withholding information about the alleged masterminds behind the abduction of pupils and teachers from schools in Oriire Local Government Area.
It, however, expressed dissatisfaction with the life imprisonment sentence handed to the convicts over the abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of the state.
The government described the judgment as a “cold comfort,” arguing that the punishment did not fully reflect the severity of the crime.
It stated that it had expected the convicts to receive capital punishment due to the trauma caused to the victims, their families and residents of the state.
However, the state government confirmed that it would respect the decision of the court and would not appeal the judgment.
The Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade, disclosed this during a radio programme in Ibadan while reacting to the verdict delivered by the Federal High Court in Abuja.
The court had earlier sentenced the three individuals to life imprisonment after finding them guilty of withholding information about the alleged masterminds behind the abduction of pupils and teachers from schools in Oriire Local Government Area.
Reacting to the ruling, Oyelade said the punishment was not sufficient considering the impact of the incident on the victims and the wider community.
He argued that individuals who conceal information that enables criminal activities should be held accountable alongside those who directly carry out such offences.
According to him, those who assist criminals by hiding vital information contribute to the success of such crimes and should not be treated differently from the perpetrators.
Despite the state government’s reservations, the commissioner said the administration would respect the rule of law and accept the court’s decision.
He also commended the Federal High Court for the swift conclusion of the case, describing the development as an indication that serious criminal matters can be handled efficiently within Nigeria’s justice system.
Oyelade further called for a review of the country’s anti-terrorism and criminal laws to ensure that kidnapping, terrorism and other security-related offences attract appropriate penalties.
He stressed that stronger legislation, faster prosecution and effective enforcement would help deter criminals and improve security across the country.
The commissioner also reaffirmed the Oyo State Government’s commitment to strengthening security measures around schools and protecting pupils and teachers from future attacks.
Discover more from The Source
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
