A high-profile legal battle has unfolded in Edo State as the state Commissioner of Police moves to prosecute Chief Benjamin Ikani, the former Oliola of Uzanu community, and five co-defendants over alleged trial-by-ordeal ceremonies.
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The unusual case, filed before Magistrate M. Oare in Auchi Magistrate Court, centers on the ancient practice of subjecting accused persons to dangerous tests—a procedure expressly banned under Section 207(i) of the Nigerian Criminal Code.
According to court filings, the suit was lodged on December 12, 2024, and formally entered on January 7, 2025. Despite more than five months having elapsed, the case remains stalled by repeated failures of the defendants to appear. The six accused include Benjamin Ikani (53), Ikpemhi Okogie (27), Eshemogie Clifford (30), Jimoh Daniel (42), Anthony Adamu (53), and Akuda James (40).
The alleged victims, Julie Abide and Esther Okwiufu, claim they were forced to undergo perilous ordeals intended to prove innocence or guilt. Women’s groups and human rights advocates have condemned the practice as both unlawful and dehumanizing.
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“It undermines the rule of law and violates fundamental human rights,” said one advocate. “Section 207(i) clearly criminalizes these rituals.”
Reports indicate that after filing their initial complaint, police repeatedly summoned the defendants, only to be met with no-shows. Sources within the court revealed that even a resolution by the Uzanu Kingmakers to strip Ikani of his title did not persuade him to cooperate.
An insider told our correspondent that the magistrate has grown frustrated with the delays and may issue a bench warrant if the defendants continue to abscond.
“In nearly half a year, we’ve seen no commitment to face justice,” the source said. “This threatens a miscarriage of justice for the victims.”
Legal experts note that trial-by-ordeal was outlawed to ensure accused persons receive fair and humane treatment. Penalties for overseers or participants can include fines and imprisonment.
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Magistrate Oare has adjourned the case multiple times, most recently to July 10, 2025, urging the police commissioner to consider alternative measures if court attendance remains elusive.
As pressure mounts, Edo State residents and rights groups are calling for swift action to uphold the law and deliver justice to those who suffered these archaic rituals.
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