A Kaduna magistrates’ court has sentenced 32-year-old Kenneth James to 18 months in prison for taking jewellery valued at N860,000 from his girlfriend while she was travelling.
Sentence and restitution order
James entered a guilty plea to a single count of theft before Magistrate Ibrahim Emmanuel on Wednesday. The court imposed an 18-month custodial sentence, although he may pay a N50,000 fine in place of the prison term.
- The court directed James to repay N860,000 to the complainant, Miss Vivian Gideon.
- If he does not make the repayment, he will face a further 10 months’ imprisonment.
- Magistrate Emmanuel cautioned him not to engage in any further criminal conduct after completing his sentence.
- The magistrate urged him to maintain good conduct and comply with the law.
Police complaint and investigation
During the hearing, prosecuting counsel Inspector Chidi Leo said Gideon lodged the complaint at Gabasawa Police Station on October 5, 2026.
Leo told the court that James, who was in a relationship with Gideon, removed her gold earrings and necklace while she was away on a trip. Police investigations led to a confession in which he admitted selling the jewellery, the prosecutor said.
Applicable law
The prosecution said the theft charge was brought under the Kaduna State Penal Code of 2017.
