In a recent interview by Punchng, Segun Olowookere, who was sentenced to death in 2014 for armed robbery in Osun State, has provided insights into the events leading to his conviction. Contrary to widespread reports suggesting he was condemned solely for stealing a fowl, Olowookere clarified that the charges involved multiple counts of armed robbery, including the theft of fowls, eggs, mobile phones, and an attempted robbery.
Arrested in November 2010 at the age of 17, Olowookere and an accomplice, Sunday Morakinyo, were accused of robbing a police officer, Tope Balogun, and others in Oyan, Odo-Otin Local Government Area. The prosecution alleged that the duo, armed with cutlasses and a Dane gun, committed multiple robberies, leading to their arraignment before Justice Jide Falola of the Osun State High Court in Ikirun.
During the trial, the state counsel presented six witnesses, including victims and police officers, who testified against the defendants. Despite pleading not guilty, Olowookere reportedly made a confessional statement admitting to the crimes. In December 2014, the court found both men guilty, sentencing them to death for conspiracy to commit armed robbery, life imprisonment for robbery, and three years for stealing. Given their ages, the judge recommended that the state governor consider commuting the death sentence to ten years’ imprisonment.
Olowookere recounted that his family’s inability to meet a N30,000 bail demand contributed to his prolonged detention and eventual conviction. He expressed hope for clemency, especially after recent public attention to his case. In response to the outcry, Governor Ademola Adeleke has directed the state’s Attorney General to investigate the matter and initiate processes for a possible pardon.
This case has sparked discussions about the severity of punishments for crimes involving minors and the importance of judicial discretion in sentencing. As the investigation proceeds, there is a growing call for a balanced approach that ensures justice while considering the rehabilitation potential of young offenders.
