A former member of the Jigawa State House of Assembly, Hon. Shu’ibu Kashim Dila, has been convicted and sentenced for offences bordering on criminal conspiracy, breach of trust, and cheating following a six-month trial at the Chief Magistrate Court II in Dutse.
The conviction was handed down by Chief Magistrate Abdullahi Ibrahim Aliyu after the Jigawa State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission (JSPCACC) successfully prosecuted the former lawmaker.
How the Fraud Unfolded
According to Yusuf Suleiman, spokesperson for the Commission, the case stemmed from a petition filed on February 17, 2025, by Aisha Yusuf of Hadejia Local Government Area.
The petitioner alleged that Dila, acting in concert with his wife, fraudulently obtained ₦5 million from her under a written agreement to repay the sum within one month.
However, when the repayment date elapsed, Dila allegedly sent his wife away to an unknown location to evade repayment, prompting the complainant to seek justice.
Investigations revealed that Dila confessed to the offence, with evidence proving his intent to defraud.
The Court’s Ruling
The prosecution, led by Barrister Zubairu Haladu, called three witnesses and presented two exhibits, while the defence produced two witnesses but no exhibits.
After reviewing the evidence, Magistrate Aliyu ruled that the prosecution had proved its case beyond reasonable doubt.
Dila was consequently sentenced to multiple fines and prison terms:
- ₦50,000 fine or three months imprisonment for breach of trust
- ₦50,000 fine or three months imprisonment for cheating
- ₦30,000 fine or two months imprisonment for conspiracy
In addition, the court ordered Dila to refund the ₦5 million to the complainant or face five years in prison. He was also directed to pay ₦250,000 to cover prosecution expenses, with a four-month jail term in default.
The magistrate stated that all sentences would run consecutively, meaning the former legislator faces a lengthy prison term if he fails to meet the financial obligations.
Anti-Corruption Commission Reacts
The Jigawa State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission hailed the judgment as a landmark victory in its fight against financial crimes and abuse of public office.
“This verdict sends a strong message that no individual, regardless of their political status, is above the law,” the Commission said in a statement.
It reaffirmed its commitment to pursuing similar cases to safeguard public trust and ensure accountability across the state.
