The Taraba State High Court in Jalingo has sentenced Festus Edward from Ardo Kola Local Government to two years and six months in prison for theft and criminal conspiracy. The court gave him an option to pay a ₦250,000 fine instead.
Justice Joel Agya delivered the judgment on Tuesday, finding Edward guilty of stealing government property from Danbaba Suntai Airport in Jalingo. Edward was accused of vandalizing parts of the airport and stealing 15 iron poles, which he tried to move in a Mitsubishi van.
Edward, along with Ibrahim Malam-Gaji, Abdurahaman Ahmed, and Yahaya Adamu, faced charges of theft, conspiracy, and mischief. The court heard they also damaged 20 airfield lighting cables worth N61 million.
Edward confessed to the police voluntarily, admitting he planned and carried out the theft with two others who are still at large. Based on his confession and witness evidence, the court convicted him.
However, the other three suspects were acquitted due to lack of proof. They were declared victims of circumstance.
Edward’s lawyer asked for leniency, describing him as a first-time offender and family breadwinner. Justice Agya sentenced Edward to six months for conspiracy and two years for theft, to run one after the other.
The lawyers for the acquitted men praised the judge for his fair handling of the case and appealed for mercy for Edward.
This case highlights the court’s effort to punish crimes affecting public property while ensuring justice for the innocent.
