Nigeria's Supreme Court Maintains Farmer's Death Sentence for Killing a Herdsman in self-defense.

A recent court ruling has ignited widespread outrage over what legal experts describe as a miscarriage of justice. The case revolves around Jackson, a farmer who was convicted of murder after defending himself against a fatal attack.

Ten years after Jackson was initially imprisoned, the March 7th ruling has drawn criticism for what many perceive as judicial bias. The incident began when a Fulani herdsman attacked Jackson with a knife. Despite sustaining injuries, Jackson managed to overpower his assailant and used the weapon in self-defense. The herdsman died as a result of the altercation. However, instead of recognizing it as self-defense, Jackson was detained for seven years before being sentenced to death in 2021.

His legal team challenged the ruling on constitutional grounds, highlighting multiple irregularities. One key issue was the significant delay in judgment. Jackson testified on February 27, 2020, and final written addresses were scheduled for August 27, 2020. However, judgment was not delivered until February 10, 2021—a delay of 167 days, which exceeded the constitutional limit. Under Nigeria’s Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA), such delays could render the ruling void, particularly when they lead to a miscarriage of justice.

Another point of contention was the trial judge's alleged bias. Reports suggest that the judge disregarded evidence showing Jackson had already been stabbed in the leg and was physically unable to escape. Instead, the judge ruled that Jackson "had the option to flee" rather than act in self-defense. Legal experts argue that this contradicts well-established legal principles affirming the right to self-defense. Many believe that, at worst, Jackson should have faced a manslaughter charge rather than murder.

“This is a textbook case of how justice should not work,” said a senior human rights lawyer. “A man who fought for his life against a violent attacker has been abandoned by the very system meant to protect him.”

In response to the verdict, civil society organizations and legal advocates are demanding urgent judicial reforms. Many fear that Jackson's case sets a dangerous precedent, discouraging people from defending themselves—especially in rural areas where violent crimes are prevalent.

As Jackson faces execution, legal experts continue to push for a case review, warning that upholding this ruling could severely damage public trust in Nigeria's justice system. A human rights advocate emphasized, "This is not just about one man. This ruling sends a message to all Nigerians that their right to self-defense is meaningless."