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The Supreme Court of Nigeria has upheld the death sentence of Sunday Jackson, a farmer from Adamawa State, for killing a Fulani herdsman in what he says was self-defense.
The case began when Jackson was attacked on his farm in Codonti Forest by a Fulani herdsman, Buba Bawuro, who had trespassed with his cattle. During the altercation, Bawuro stabbed Jackson multiple times.
Jackson managed to seize the knife and, in the struggle, fatally stabbed Bawuro. Despite his claims of self-defense, Jackson was arrested and charged with murder. In 2021, a Yola court sentenced him to death by hanging, a decision that the Supreme Court has now confirmed.
The ruling has sparked strong reactions from human rights groups and legal experts. Many believe the judgment is unfair and that Jackson was only protecting himself.
Human rights lawyer Emmanuel Ogebe expressed concerns about how Nigeria’s justice system treats victims of attacks. He pointed out that many Nigerians have been punished for defending themselves, while their attackers often go free.
The case also raises questions about Nigeria’s legal process. Jackson’s trial was delayed for years, and his final judgment took much longer than the time allowed by law. Legal experts argue that these delays may have affected the fairness of the verdict.
Critics also question the court’s reasoning that Jackson should have run away instead of defending himself, despite the fact that he had been stabbed and was struggling for his life. Many believe that at most, Jackson should have faced a lesser charge, such as manslaughter, instead of murder.
Jackson has spent more than ten years in prison, including six years waiting for his trial. His supporters say this is a clear case of injustice and are calling on the governor of Adamawa State to grant him clemency.
The case has also drawn international attention, with human rights organizations urging Nigerian authorities to review the verdict and ensure justice is served.
The ruling has led to widespread debate on self-defense laws in Nigeria and the treatment of farmers who face violent attacks. Many Nigerians are asking whether the legal system is protecting ordinary citizens or punishing them for trying to survive.
