Five years after the gruesome killing of a final-year engineering student of the University of Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State High Court sitting in Uyo has sentenced a self-proclaimed pastor, Prince Emmanuel, to death for murder NEGROIDHAVEN can report.
The trial judge, Gabriel Nkanang, on Thursday found the convict guilty of murdering Gabriel Bassey Edward in December 2020.
Edward, described by family members as brilliant and outspoken, was reportedly killed in his residence after renting part of the property to the convict, who allegedly used the space as a church parish in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
During the trial, the prosecution presented evidence linking the convict to the crime, including testimonies from neighbours who reportedly heard distressing screams from the premises on the day of the incident. Witnesses also told the court that they saw the defendant fetching water with buckets allegedly stained with blood, claims he reportedly dismissed at the time as part of prayer activities.
Police investigations further uncovered items said to belong to the deceased in the residence of the convict, who was identified as the last person seen with Edward before his death.
Delivering judgment, the court held that the prosecution proved its case beyond reasonable doubt and accordingly sentenced the defendant to death.
Counsel to the deceased’s family, Inibehe Effiong, described the verdict as justice long awaited for the family.
He commended the prosecution, led by Ms. Iniobong Essang of the Akwa Ibom State Ministry of Justice, for what he termed a diligent handling of the matter.
The deceased’s father, Emana Edward, and other family members were present in court during the judgment.
The case, which generated significant public interest at the time of the incident, has now culminated in a conviction, bringing closure to a protracted legal battle.
