Aliyu Sani, a young man, was sentenced to 30 months in prison by a Jos Area Court for stealing phones, smartwatches, and airtime valued at ₦1,366,000. Many argue that this crime is indicative of the increasing economic difficulties under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
In charge Sani entered a guilty plea to conspiracy and theft charges before Judge Irene Pati imposed the sentence. He was offered the choice of paying ₦20,000 for each count or going to jail.
According to police prosecutor Daniel Ijuptil, on August 21, Sani and his group broke into Umar Abubakar’s store and took a number of things, including airtime coupons, Itel wristwatch, earbuds, and cell phones.
As a result of rising unemployment, inflation, and the high cost of living that has gotten worse since Tinubu’s economic reforms went into force, observers say the case underscores the rising rate of theft and small-time crimes around the nation.
The actions of the current administration, according to critics, have driven many Nigerians to the brink and forced some of them to commit crimes in order to survive. Citizens still struggle with poverty and a falling level of living despite numerous pledges to boost the economy and enhance security.
