A High Court sitting in Akwa Ibom State has sentenced a pastor to death after finding him guilty of the murder of a final-year student of the University of Uyo (UNIUYO).
The court ruled that the prosecution successfully proved its case beyond reasonable doubt, establishing the pastor’s direct involvement in the killing of the young undergraduate. In delivering judgment, the presiding judge described the crime as deliberate and grievous, noting that the evidence presented left no room for doubt.
According to court records, the victim, who was nearing the completion of academic studies, was unlawfully killed under circumstances that shocked the university community and the wider public. The incident had sparked outrage when it first came to light, with students and civil society groups demanding justice and accountability.
During the trial, the prosecution presented witnesses and material evidence linking the accused to the crime. The defence, however, failed to disprove the allegations or raise sufficient doubt to overturn the case against the pastor. The court consequently upheld the charge of murder and pronounced the maximum penalty as provided by law.
Reactions to the judgment have been mixed, with many Nigerians describing it as a strong statement against violent crimes and abuse of trust, especially by religious figures. Others have called for continued reforms to strengthen protection for students and vulnerable persons.
The University of Uyo community has expressed relief over the verdict, while urging authorities to ensure sustained safety around campuses and swift justice in similar cases.
