Samuel Jigede, a 35-year-old trader, has found himself behind bars in Jos, Plateau State, following a recent ruling by a Jos Magistrates’ Court. Jigede has been handed a four-month prison sentence for perpetrating a scam involving counterfeit alerts following the purchase of goods.
In a swift and decisive legal proceeding, Magistrate Shawomi Bokkos delivered the verdict on Friday, ultimately finding Jigede guilty of his actions. Acknowledging his guilt, Jigede was sentenced to four months in prison. However, Magistrate Bokkos presented an alternative: Jigede could opt to pay a fine of his choosing along with a compensation fee amounting to N15,000. In this scenario, he would serve three months in confinement.
Magistrate Bokkos underscored the significance of the penalty as a deterrent against potential future offenders, affirming that such measures were essential to upholding the integrity of the legal system and maintaining societal trust.
The case was brought to the court’s attention on July 11 by Uzochukwu Nwakasi, the complainant, who reported the fraudulent activities to the ‘C’ Division Police Station in Jos. The prosecution, led by Insp Ibrahim Gokwat, meticulously presented evidence detailing Jigede’s deceitful tactics. The court learned that Jigede had purchased goods and proceeded to issue fraudulent payment alerts to unsuspecting sellers. His fraudulent actions were promptly uncovered and reported, leading to the initiation of legal proceedings.
The charges pressed against Jigede fall under the purview of the Plateau State Penal Code Law, underlining the gravity of his actions. This court decision serves as a significant reminder of the consequences that await individuals who engage in fraudulent activities, further solidifying the importance of accountability and transparency within commercial transactions.
The Magistrates’ Court ruling stands as a testament to the justice system’s resolve to preserve the sanctity of trade and ensure that perpetrators of fraudulent acts are held accountable for their actions. This verdict sends a clear message that such practices will not be tolerated, setting a precedent for ethical conduct within the commercial landscape.
