25-year-old bags life jail for raping boy in Jigawa
In a significant ruling, the State High Court in Jigawa, under the jurisdiction of Justice Musa Ubale, has handed down a life imprisonment sentence to 25-year-old Aminu Ali. The court found Ali guilty of the heinous crimes of rape and sodomy against a 10-year-old boy, whose identity has been withheld for protection.
Ali, a resident of Aukayawa Quarters in the Gwaram Local Government Area of Jigawa State, was convicted after the prosecution presented compelling evidence that established his guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. The court heard that Ali had lured the young victim and engaged in anal intercourse with him.
To support its case, the prosecution counsel called upon five witnesses and submitted four exhibits, including a medical report that confirmed the sexual assault. The combination of testimonies and evidence left no doubt in the court’s mind about the severity of Ali’s crimes.
In delivering the verdict, Justice Ubale affirmed that the prosecution had successfully proven its case beyond a reasonable doubt. Consequently, Ali was sentenced to life imprisonment under Section 3 (2&4) of the Violence Against Person Prohibition Law of Jigawa State (VAPP LAW). However, the judge also acknowledged the convict’s right to appeal the judgment within a three-month period.
This landmark ruling serves as a stern warning to offenders and a message of justice for victims of sexual violence. It underscores the commitment of the Nigerian judiciary to protect vulnerable individuals, especially children, from such heinous crimes.
The prevalence of rape and sexual assault cases in Nigeria is a matter of grave concern.
The government, civil society organizations, and communities must work collaboratively to raise awareness, improve legal frameworks, and provide support systems for survivors of sexual violence. It is vital to create a society where perpetrators are held accountable, survivors are empowered, and the safety and well-being of all citizens, especially children, are prioritized.
