Man, 28, sentenced to 30 years for the murder of Professor Benneh.

The Accra High Court has sentenced Ebenezer Kwayisi, a mason apprentice, to 30 years imprisonment for his involvement in the murder of former law lecturer at the University of Ghana, Professor Emmanuel Yaw Benneh. The 28-year-old pleaded guilty to abetment to manslaughter and was sentenced today by Justice Mary Maame Ekue Yanzuh.

Kwayisi, initially charged with abetment to commit murder, opted to plead guilty to abetment to manslaughter under Section 239(2) of the Criminal and Other Offences (Procedure) Act, 1960 (Act 30). This decision came after reaching an agreement with the prosecution, resulting in a lesser sentence than murder.

Under Section 239(2) Act 30, a defendant can plead guilty to a similar offence related to the same charge based on an agreement with the prosecution. Upon agreement, the prosecution recommended a 30-year sentence, which was accepted by the court. Kwayisi will serve his term in hard labor.

The murder of Professor Benneh occurred in September 2020, where he was found dead in his residence in a pool of blood with his hands and legs tied. The prime suspect, James Nana Womba, confessed to the murder but died in police custody on October 17, 2020.

The prosecution presented evidence linking Womba to the crime scene, including matching fingerprints. Womba’s arrest led to the discovery of incriminating evidence, such as blood-stained ropes and gloves.

Kwayisi’s sentencing marks a step towards justice in the tragic murder case of Professor Benneh, though it also highlights the severity of the crime and the legal consequences for those involved.