Nigerian youth receives death sentence for stealing an Android LG phone
It is no secret that Nigerian government officials have gotten away with looting billions of dollars over the years. But punishment for common criminals in Nigeria is harsh.
Four years ago when he was 18, Tope Abiodun was arrested for stealing a smart phone. He has been in prison ever since, awaiting the outcome of appeals and awaiting final sentencing for the theft.
The Android LG phone was valued at 87,000 Nigerian Nairas (270 U.S. dollars). Tope claims he only stole the phone in order to sell it so he could provide some food for his hungry younger brothers and sisters.
The High Court of the Federal Capital Territory was not swayed by the family’s hunger. It sentenced Tope to death by hanging.
Capital punishment in Nigeria is meted out for treason, mutiny, terrorism, kidnapping, murder, rape, robbery, adultery, incest and homosexual sodomy. Death sentences can be carried out by hanging, firing squad or stoning. Same-sex marriage also carries the death penalty.
NOTE: This is no April Fool joke!
2 comments:
Some people think the criminal justice system in the US is too harsh. Go to Nigeria and steal a smart phone.
The government wants very badly to protect its monopoly on thievery. Independent thieves are simply not permitted.
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