Akwa Ibom court sentences man to death for murder of nine-year-old boy
A High Court in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State has sentenced 38-year-old Anwanga Udofia to death by hanging after convicting him for the murder of a nine-year-old primary school pupil. The judge found that the prosecution proved the case beyond reasonable doubt before delivering the capital punishment. The court proceedings centred on the tragic death of the young boy, and the ruling reflects the application of Nigeria’s criminal law, under which murder is punishable by death upon conviction.
The judgement has sparked reactions across social media and within the state, with residents calling for justice and stronger protection for children. The legal framework in Nigeria stipulates the death penalty for murder unless the convicted person was under 17 at the time of the offence, and the sentence must be carried out by hanging unless otherwise commuted by executive clemency.
Officials and community leaders have emphasised the need for continued vigilance and stronger community policing to protect minors and prevent violent crimes. The case reinforces ongoing concerns about child safety and criminal accountability in Akwa Ibom and across the country.
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