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A 35-year-old taxi driver, Paul Evename, has been sentenced to life imprisonment for the brutal murder of his girlfriend, Jennifer Atieku, a 20-year-old student of the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA).
A seven-member jury unanimously found Evename guilty after it was revealed that he had stabbed Atieku 20 times at her hostel, following her decision to end their five-year relationship. The jury returned a 7-0 verdict, concluding that Evename was guilty of the crime.
Before sentencing, Evename expressed remorse, apologizing to both his family and the victim’s. “I have wronged everybody and I have disappointed them, so I pray that they forgive me,” he told the court. Despite his plea, he accepted the guilty verdict.
Sentencing
Justice Lydia Osei Marfo, the presiding judge, expressed regret that she could not impose a punishment other than life imprisonment, as mandated by the law. She stated, “Unfortunately, I do not have the discretion under the law to do anything other than what the law says, which is imprisonment for life. I hereby sentence the accused person to life imprisonment. I wish him the best.”
Prosecution’s Case
The prosecution, led by Principal State Attorney Seth Awere-Opanyinyena, presented evidence from five witnesses to prove Evename’s guilt beyond reasonable doubt.
The prosecution referenced Biblical scriptures, including Proverbs 17:15 and Hebrews 9:27, to highlight the gravity of the crime and the need for justice.
Defense’s Argument
In contrast, Evename’s defense counsel, Mumin Mashood, argued that his client acted in self-defense, citing the close relationship between Evename and the victim.
He maintained that the prosecution had not proven deliberate murder, asserting that Evename acted in self-defense under extreme circumstances. Mashood referred to John 8:7-11 to suggest that tragic events sometimes unfold beyond one’s control.
Despite the defense’s efforts, the court ultimately convicted Evename, sentencing him to life in prison for the murder of Jennifer Atieku.
