KEKERE-EKUN JSC (Delivering the Lead Judgment):

The appellant herein (2nd accused), his father (1st accused) and his sister (3rd accused) were al arraigned before the High Court of Benue State, sitting at Makurdi on a two-count charge as follows: “1. That you, Ochani Idoko, Idoko Ochani and Agnes Idoko on or about 28 July 2002 at about 1200hrs at Ukwo Centre, Owukpa, Ogbadibo Local Government

Area, Benue State within the jurisdiction of this court agreed to do an illegal act to wit: cause the death of one Matthew Adikwu by cutting him with matchet on the head and hitting him with pestle and wood on the forehead and back, respectively, which acts were done in pursuance of the agreement and that you thereby committed an offence punishable under Section 97 of the Penal Code. 2. That you, Ochani Idoko, Idoko Ochani and Agnes

Idoko on or about 28 July 2002 at about 12 hours at Ukwo Ce ntr e , Owukpa in Ogba dibo Loca l Gover nme nt Are a of Be nue State within the jurisdiction of this honoura…