4 Nigerian Students Sentenced in UK Over Knife Fight

Four Nigerian students studying in the United Kingdom have been sentenced to varying prison terms following a violent altercation in Leicester that occurred during the early hours of November 4, 2021.

The students—Destiny Ojo, Habib Lawal, Ridwanulahi Raheem, and Joshua Davies-Ero—were involved in a fight that escalated to the use of knives and a baseball bat on New Park Street. The incident left an 18-year-old man with four stab wounds requiring urgent medical attention.

After the suspects fled the scene, an extensive investigation ensued, involving CCTV footage, phone records, and public appeals for information. The case culminated in a six-week trial, with sentences delivered on November 14, 2023.

Sentences:

• Destiny Ojo, 21, from Plumstead, London: Seven years for violent disorder, attempted grievous bodily harm (GBH), and GBH with intent.
• Habib Lawal, 21, from Bexley, London: Five years for violent disorder, attempted GBH, and GBH with intent.
• Ridwanulahi Raheem, 21, from Lambeth, London: Three years for violent disorder and possession of a bladed weapon.
• Joshua Davies-Ero, 21, from Bexley, London: Two years for violent disorder.

A fifth defendant, Justin Asamoah, 22, of Merton, had earlier pleaded guilty to possession of a bladed article and is awaiting sentencing on November 22.

The Incident:

The violent confrontation unfolded at approximately 3 a.m. on November 4, 2021, after Ojo, Lawal, Raheem, and Davies-Ero, who had been socializing in Leicester city center, encountered another group. A verbal exchange quickly escalated into a physical fight.

CCTV footage revealed the defendants arming themselves during the altercation:

• Ojo carried a baseball bat.
• Lawal wielded a knife.
• Raheem held a large knife.
• Davies-Ero used a crutch as a weapon.

The confrontation left one individual from the opposing group on the ground, where he was repeatedly stabbed. The victim was later treated in the hospital and discharged.

Police Statement:

Detective Constable Sean Downey described the incident as a stark reminder of the dangers of violent disorder.

“This could have been a far more tragic investigation,” Downey said. “We are thankful that no further injuries occurred, but this behavior is completely unacceptable in our communities.”

He extended gratitude to the public for their assistance and reaffirmed the police’s commitment to ensuring public safety, stating, “Violence will not be tolerated, and we will take decisive action against those who threaten peace in our society.”