MINNA, Nigeria – A Minna High Court 1 has sentenced a man to death by hanging for the killing of his mother, Mrs. Comfort Jiya. The deceased, a former Principal of Government Girls’ Secondary School and Maryam Babangida Girls’ Science College, died after being set ablaze by her son, Stephen Jiya. Comfort was in her kitchen at her residence in Darusalam Area of Minna when her son, reportedly a drug addict, poured petrol on her before lighting her on fire. She later succumbed to her injuries despite being rushed to the hospital.
Jiya was arrested by the police and confessed to the crime, claiming that his mother usually intruded into his marital affairs. The case was formally charged before Justice Halima Abdulmalik of High Court 1, under Section 221 of the Penal Code Law which provides a death penalty if found guilty. The Chief Judge found Jiya guilty of culpable homicide punishable under Section 221 of the penal code law, stating that the evidence clearly showed that he was responsible for the crime. The judge ultimately sentenced Jiya to be hanged by the neck, electrocuted, executed, or injected with lethal injection until he is dead.
Justice has been served in the tragic case of Mrs. Comfort Jiya’s murder. The ruling sends a strong message about the consequences of heinous crimes, particularly those committed within a family. The details of the case are a sobering reminder of the devastating impact of domestic violence and substance abuse.
In conclusion, the Minna High Court 1 has seen justice served with the conviction of Stephen Jiya for the murder of his mother. The ruling, sentencing him to death by hanging, sends a clear message about the consequences of such heinous crimes. As the community comes to terms with this tragic event, it is a stark reminder of the devastating impact of domestic violence and substance abuse.