The appellant Dickson Arisa was tried and convicted of murder of one Reuben Okenpa contrary to Section 319(1) of the Criminal Code Cap.30 Vol.2 Laws of Eastern Nigeria applicable to Imo State by Anyanwu, J. sitting at the Isiala-Ngwa in the High Court of Justice, Imo State.

Following his conviction on 28/6/1985 the appellant was then sentenced to death. Appellant dissatisfied with his conviction and sentence, appealed to the Court of Appeal, Enugu Division which eventually dismissed the appellant’s appeal on 26/1/87.

Appellant then appealed to the Supreme Court.