In a Badagry Chief Magistrates’ Court, a scene of mild drama unfolded as James Bassey, the nominal complainant, broke down in tears and pleaded for leniency on behalf of Pius Savoir, a dry cleaner who was sentenced to one month in prison for stealing a pressing iron and N20,000. Chief Magistrate Patrick Adekomaiya delivered the sentence after Savior pleaded guilty and the facts of the case were presented.
Considering Savior’s status as a first-time offender, the chief magistrate decided to show leniency. The sentence entailed spending seven days in prison and the remaining three weeks at Morogbo Police Station, where he would report daily for community service.
Immediately after the sentence was passed, Bassey burst into tears and implored the court to pardon Savior. He tearfully explained that he didn’t have a wife or children, and it was the convict who took care of him. Bassey relied on Savior for assistance with domestic work and even massages. However, he felt compelled to report him after the habit of stealing his belongings became too frequent.
Bassey’s emotional plea stemmed from the realization that if Savior were to be imprisoned, he would lose his sole source of assistance, which could potentially lead to his own demise.
Prior to the emotional plea, the prosecution counsel, ASP Ikem Uko, informed the court that the offense occurred on July 6 at around 7:00 p.m. at Yeponnawa Str. Church-Gate, Lagos. Savior was accused of stealing Bassey’s pressing iron and N20,000.
The prosecutor stated that the act violated Section 287 of the Criminal Law of Lagos, 2015.
The proceedings in the court showcased the human side of justice, where the impact on individuals’ lives is taken into account. While the law has been upheld through the conviction and sentence, the emotions expressed by Bassey highlight the complexity and compassion that can arise in such cases.