The Court of Appeal, Ilorin Judicial Division, has delivered a landmark judgment in the case of Mohammed Kazeem Vs The People of Kwara State, dismissing the appeal filed by Mohammed Kazeem.
The judgment, delivered on December 23, 2025, upholds the decision of the High Court, Hon. Justice S. M. Akanbi, which sentenced Kazeem to death by hanging for the murder of his neighbour, Olokose Ojo Olushola.
Olokose Ojo Olushola, a staff member of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) Unit of the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital (UITH), was brutally murdered in May 2021.
The trial court found Kazeem guilty of masterminding the killing, which involved dismembering the victim’s body for ritual purposes, just six days before his wedding.
This heinous crime sent shockwaves through the community and raised concerns about the prevalence of ritual killings in the region.
In addition to the death sentence, the trial court also handed Kazeem life imprisonment for kidnapping and 10 years imprisonment plus fine.
The court’s decision was based on the evidence presented during the trial, which proved Kazeem’s guilt beyond reasonable doubt.
The case was handled by the Attorney General of Kwara State, Senior Ibrahim Sulyman Esq at both the trial court and the court of Appeal and the judgment is a significant victory for justice and a testament to the commitment of the judiciary to uphold the rule of law. It also serves as a deterrent to others who may be tempted to engage in similar crimes.
The case highlights the importance of community vigilance and cooperation with law enforcement agencies in preventing and investigating crimes. It also underscores the need for swift and decisive action against perpetrators of heinous crimes.
In conclusion, the dismissal of Mohammed Kazeem’s appeal by the Court of Appeal, Ilorin Judicial Division, is a welcome development that upholds the principles of justice and accountability. The judgment serves as a reminder that those who commit crimes will face the full weight of the law.
