A Kaduna Magistrates’ Court has sentenced a 32-year-old man, Kenneth James, to 18 months’ imprisonment for stealing jewellery worth ₦860,000 belonging to his girlfriend, Vivian Gideon.
The convict was sentenced on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, after pleading guilty to a one-count charge of stealing before Magistrate Ibrahim Emmanuel.
However, the court gave James the option of paying a ₦50,000 fine in place of the prison term. The magistrate also ordered him to refund the full value of the stolen jewellery to the complainant.
According to the court proceedings reported by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the magistrate warned that James would face an additional 10 months in prison if he failed to refund the ₦860,000.
How the Jewellery Was Stolen
Earlier, the prosecution counsel, Inspector Chidi Leo, told the court that the complainant reported the incident at Gabasawa Police Station on October 5, 2026.
Leo explained that James, who was in a relationship with Gideon, allegedly took her gold earrings and necklace while she was away on a trip.
The prosecutor further told the court that the defendant admitted during police investigations that he had sold the stolen jewellery.
The prosecution said the offence contravened the Kaduna State Penal Code, 2017.
Court Orders Restitution to Victim
In addition to the sentence, the court ordered James to return ₦860,000 to Gideon as compensation for the stolen property.
The restitution order underscores the importance of recovering victims’ financial losses alongside imposing criminal penalties on offenders.
The court also cautioned the convict against committing further offences, urging him to maintain good conduct and abide by the law after serving his sentence.
Trust and Respect in Relationships
The case highlights the importance of honesty, respect for personal property and accountability in romantic relationships.
Being in a relationship does not give either partner the right to take, sell or dispose of the other person’s belongings without permission. Jewellery, money and other valuables remain the property of their lawful owners, regardless of the closeness of the relationship.
The incident also serves as a reminder that disputes involving personal property should be handled lawfully rather than through unauthorised possession or sale.
While the court has ordered restitution, the reported case reinforces the need for individuals to respect boundaries and understand that criminal responsibility can arise even when the parties involved are romantic partners.
By Joseph Iyaji
🎓 Attend 2026 JAMB, Post-UTME, WAEC, and NECO GCE Tutorials
Get fully prepared with expert tutors, comprehensive study materials, and personalised academic guidance at Akahi Tutors.
📍 Located at 67, Oduduwa College Road, Off Sabo Junction, Ile-Ife.
📞 Call: 08038644328
for enrollment and accommodation reservation.
Akahi News