Sentenced to Death for Stealing a Fowl: The Tragic Tale of Segun Olowookere

The story of Segun Olowookere, sentenced to death by hanging for stealing a fowl, has left many grappling with the harshness of the judgment and the larger implications for justice in Nigeria. At the center of the case lies the anguish of Segun’s parents, Olanrewaju and Folashade Olowookere, who continue to plead for their son’s life, questioning the fairness of the verdict and its devastating consequences.

A Life Forever Changed

On January 30, 2013, Segun, then 22 years old, stood trial alongside his co-defendant, 21-year-old Sunday Morakinyo, at the Osun State High Court in Ikirun. Both faced an eight-count charge, including conspiracy, armed robbery, and theft, under suit number HKK/2C/2012. Justice Sakariyah Falola presided over the case, which would ultimately lead to a sentence that has become the subject of national debate.

The charges, brought forth by State Counsel Barrister Biola Adewemimo, painted a damning picture of Segun and Morakinyo’s alleged activities in Oyan, Okuku Local Government Area, between April and November 2010. The accusations ranged from stealing fowls and eggs to robbing victims of mobile phones, cash, and even a gallon of vegetable oil.

A Controversial Prosecution

The prosecution presented six witnesses and 11 exhibits, including weapons allegedly used in the crimes: cutlasses, a Dane gun, and other items purportedly linked to the thefts. In a confessional statement, Segun claimed he had been coerced by a friend, Adepoju Siju, into joining the group. He described how an initial plan to guard a political event turned into a scheme to rob Alhaja Oyewo, the mother of Siju’s girlfriend.

Despite these statements, the defense team, led by Barrister Ayo Omolosho, argued that the evidence was circumstantial and failed to establish guilt beyond reasonable doubt. Omolosho contended that Segun and Morakinyo were not apprehended at the crime scenes and were instead scapegoats for crimes orchestrated by others.

A Harsh Sentence

The court, however, found Segun and Morakinyo guilty on charges of conspiracy, armed robbery, and theft. Justice Falola dismissed several counts due to insufficient evidence but handed down severe penalties:

1. Death by hanging for armed robbery.

2. Life imprisonment for conspiracy to commit armed robbery.

3. Three years’ imprisonment for theft.

Acknowledging their youth, the judge recommended that the death and life sentences be commuted to a 10-year prison term. Additionally, Morakinyo’s mental health was ordered to be evaluated, with a transfer to an asylum if deemed necessary.

Public Outcry and Calls for Clemency

News of the judgment ignited outrage, particularly as reports sensationalized the case as a death sentence for stealing a single fowl. The narrative struck a chord with many who viewed the punishment as disproportionate and emblematic of deeper issues within the justice system.

Governor Ademola Adeleke responded by initiating an investigation and expressing openness to granting clemency. His intervention offered a glimmer of hope for Segun’s family, who have remained steadfast in their plea for mercy.

A Clash of Perspectives

While the call for leniency gained traction, not everyone supported the governor’s approach. Former Attorney-General of Oyo State, Mutalubi Adebayo, warned against undermining judicial independence.

Adebayo stated:

“The claim that Olowookere was sentenced to death solely for stealing a fowl is a gross misrepresentation. The trial was fair, and no appeal has been filed since the judgment was delivered 14 years ago. While governors have the constitutional power to pardon convicts, interfering with judicial decisions sets a dangerous precedent.”

His remarks underscored the tension between public sentiment and the judiciary’s responsibility to uphold the rule of law.

The Human Cost of Justice

At its heart, this case is about more than legal arguments or political debates—it’s about a young man whose life has been irrevocably altered by circumstances he may not have fully controlled. For Segun’s parents, the journey has been one of heartbreak and resilience, as they continue to fight for their son’s future.

As Nigeria grapples with this controversial case, it raises critical questions about proportionality in sentencing, the role of judicial discretion, and the broader need for reform in the justice system. In the midst of it all, the hope remains that compassion and fairness will prevail.