A Lagos State High Court has sentenced Benjamin Ogundero to death by hanging for killing his wife, Chinyere Ogundero, and her brother, Ifeanyi Joseph. The tragic incident happened in April 2022 in Abule Ado, Lagos.

According to the court, Ogundero set his wife and her brother on fire while they were sleeping. The reason? He was angry that his wife owned the house they lived in, which she bought while working in the banking sector. This frustration led him to commit the terrible act.

Justice Sherifat Sonaike, who delivered the judgment on February 27, 2025, ruled that Ogundero deliberately planned and carried out the attack. The judge called the act “wickedness of the highest order” and said the prosecution had proven his guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

During the trial, witnesses gave chilling testimonies. One described how Chinyere’s body was so badly burned that her limbs fell off. Another said Ifeanyi Joseph died from severe burns that caused his body to shut down.

A neighbor also testified that they saw Ogundero running from the burning house with a fuel container, further proving his guilt.

Apart from the death sentence, Ogundero was also found guilty of arson and sentenced to life imprisonment, which will start from the day of his conviction.

Throughout the trial, Ogundero showed no signs of regret. The court found that his actions were driven by personal anger and resentment.

This case serves as a tragic reminder of the consequences of unchecked anger and domestic violence. Justice has now been served for the victims.