High Court Sentences Ex-Police Inspector to Death for Murder
Justice Sherifat Sonaike of the Lagos State High Court, sitting in Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS), has confidently asserted that justice will be served by sentencing dismissed police inspector Paul Joseph to death for the murder of Moshood Ademola Ismali.
The evidence clearly established that Joseph was guilty of shooting Ismali in the head during a patrol in Aguda on March 28, 2019. In her ruling, Justice Sonaike unequivocally stated that this heinous act violated Section 223 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State.
The prosecution presented a compelling case, with Ismali’s death confirmed by his brother, Kudus Ibrahim, who served as the sole testimony for the prosecution. It is crucial to note, however, that Kudus was not present at the scene of the crime and only provided his account after the tragic event.
Justice Sonaike outlined the facts of the case decisively, confirming that Joseph, as the patrol team leader, was thoroughly investigated and charged with murder after admitting to patrolling the area. His denial of firing the fatal shot was undermined by substantial evidence linking him directly to the crime.
The trial commenced on May 25, 2022, and despite some delays in locating prosecution witnesses, it reached a conclusion on October 19, 2023. The prosecution’s successful request for court approval on May 15, 2024, to record additional statements from the defendant underscored the gravity and importance of pursuing justice in this matter.
Justice Sonaike took a strong stance on the absence of other officers who were part of the patrol team, asserting that their testimonies could have delivered critical eyewitness accounts. Their refusal to testify reflects a troubling culture within the police that must be addressed.
“The defendant admitted to patrolling the area on the day of the incident and acknowledged that a gunshot led to a death. This admission, combined with the compelling evidence, leaves no room for doubt about his guilt,” she stated firmly.
She emphasized that Joseph’s actions—specifically shooting the victim in the head—demonstrated a clear intention to kill or inflict serious harm. “The use of a live weapon and the fatal wound inflicted undeniably confirm that the defendant caused Ismali’s death,” she declared with conviction.
In addition, the judge addressed the police officers who chose not to testify, recommending appropriate disciplinary actions to uphold accountability within the force. “Those who fail to fulfill their obligations should not continue to receive taxpayer-funded salaries,” she stated emphatically.
In his plea for leniency, defense counsel B.O. Abdusalam portrayed Joseph as a first-time offender who has shown signs of reform while in custody, having completed four courses and earned certifications. However, Justice Sonaike remained steadfast in her decision.
Ultimately, she delivered a resounding sentence of death for Joseph, reiterating the essential need for accountability within the police force to prevent future tragedies. This ruling reinforces the principle that integrity and responsibility are paramount in law enforcement to ensure the safety and trust of the community.
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