Adamawa High Court Imposes Death Penalty on Armed Robber
A High Court in Yola, Adamawa State, has delivered a stern verdict in a high-profile armed robbery case, sentencing a 39-year-old man to death. The court, presided over by Justice Kaynson Lawanson of High Court No. III, found Gambo Goni guilty on multiple counts related to criminal conspiracy and armed robbery, leading to a capital punishment ruling.
Details of the Conviction and Sentencing
Gambo Goni faced charges stemming from a robbery incident that occurred on October 4, 2014. According to court documents, he conspired with four other individuals, who remain at large, to carry out the armed robbery. The group targeted the premises of Alhaji Lawan Suleiman, Alhaji Musa B. Umaru, Munir M.G., and Alhaji Ahmed Saibaru Shuaibu in the Kofare area of Yola South Local Government Area.
During the robbery, the convict and his accomplices, armed with offensive weapons, stole money, mobile phones, and other valuable items from the victims. The prosecution argued that this act violated Section 6(b) and was punishable under Section 1(2)(a) of the Robbery and Firearms (Special Provisions) Act, Cap R.11, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004.
In delivering the judgment, Justice Kaynson Lawanson stated that the prosecution had successfully proved its case beyond a reasonable doubt. As a result, Gambo Goni was convicted on counts one and two, which pertained to criminal conspiracy and armed robbery. However, he was discharged on counts three, four, and five, indicating a partial acquittal on some aspects of the charges.
Court's Final Ruling and Sentencing
The judge imposed the death sentence, specifying that it should be carried out by hanging or lethal injection until death is confirmed. In his remarks, Justice Lawanson expressed a solemn hope for divine mercy, saying, "I hereby sentence you to death by hanging or by lethal injection until he is confirmed dead, I pray God to have mercy on you."
This case highlights the severe legal consequences for armed robbery in Nigeria, particularly under the Robbery and Firearms Act. The sentencing serves as a reminder of the judiciary's commitment to addressing violent crimes and upholding justice in Adamawa State and beyond.
