…By Dorcas Funmi for TDPel Media.
The Theft and Reported Incident
Zakaraya Usman, a 30-year-old painter, has been handed a prison sentence in Abuja for his alleged theft of Holy Bibles.
According to reports, Usman targeted a church in the nation’s capital city and made off with four Bibles, along with other items including 124 church membership forms, bottled water, and Caprisonne drinks.
Prosecution and Court Proceedings
During the trial at the Grade I Area Court in Kabusa, Abuja, the Prosecution Counsel, O. S. Osho, revealed that the Chief Security Officer of Living Faith Church, Durumi I branch, David Usman, had reported the incident to the authorities.
It was alleged that Zakaraya Usman had unlawfully entered the church premises and committed the theft.
The stolen items, including three mini Bibles, one large Bible, bottles of water, Caprisonne drinks, testimonial certificates, church membership forms, security jackets, clothing items, handkerchiefs, bags, and cash, were all recovered during the subsequent police investigation.
Guilty Plea and Sentencing
While facing the charges against him, Zakaraya Usman pleaded guilty.
In response, Judge Abubakar Sadiq handed down a two-month prison sentence.
However, Usman was given the option to pay a fine of N10,000 in lieu of serving the full sentence.
The judge also issued a warning, emphasizing that the court would not show leniency if Usman were to commit a similar offense in the future.