A Senior Magistrate’s court in Gwagwalada, Abuja, has ordered 22-year-old Samson Sunday to clean the restrooms at the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital for 10 days.
This sentence was handed down following his conviction for cheating and criminal breach of trust after Sunday allegedly refused to pay for a haircut.
According to the prosecution counsel, Abdullahi Tanko, Sunday received services at a barbershop owned by Okoro Chinaza but refused to pay the N27,000 owed.
Tanko explained that the incident was reported to the Gwagwalada Police on 29th October, leading to Sunday’s arrest and trial.
The court found Sunday guilty under Sections 312 and 322 of the Penal Code, which address cheating and breach of trust.
During his hearing, Sunday pleaded for the court’s forgiveness, promising never to commit such an offence again.
Delivering the verdict, Senior Magistrate Nuhu Tukur imposed a unique sentence, instructing Sunday to perform community service instead of a traditional punishment.
The magistrate further instructed corrections officers to oversee the sentence and ensure that Sunday completed the task.
“Let this serve as a warning to avoid future infractions,” Magistrate Tukur warned.
This decision reflects a growing trend in community-focused sentencing, where offenders are encouraged to contribute positively to society as part of their rehabilitation.