A Jigawa State High Court has acquitted Isah Usman, popularly known as "Niga," of charges related to criminal conspiracy and armed robbery due to insufficient evidence presented by the prosecution.

Justice Muhammad El-Usman delivered the ruling on Wednesday, stating that the prosecution failed to prove their case beyond reasonable doubt as required by law. The defendant had been arraigned for an alleged robbery incident that occurred on February 2, 2020, at Chaichai Tsohuwa Village in Dutse Local Government Area of Jigawa State.

In his judgment, Justice El-Usman highlighted critical failures in the prosecution's approach, noting that they did not call any witnesses to testify against the accused despite having two potential witnesses available. Additionally, no exhibits were presented to establish a connection between the defendant and the alleged crime.

Call for Better Coordination in Criminal Justice System

The presiding judge emphasized the need for effective collaboration between security agencies, the Ministry of Justice, and complainants to ensure proper investigation and prosecution of capital offenses. He noted that such coordination would help courts arrive at more just and fair decisions.

Justice El-Usman also expressed concern over the common occurrence of victims failing to testify in court proceedings, pointing out that this practice undermines the justice delivery system rather than supporting it.

The case highlights ongoing challenges within Nigeria's criminal justice system, particularly regarding evidence collection, witness cooperation, and prosecution procedures in serious criminal cases.