Plateau Chief Justice David Mann has handed down a death sentence in the case of Rinji Bala, the University of Jos student who was k!lled in 2020, bringing a major chapter in the state’s legal history to a close.
Delivering judgment on Tuesday at Plateau State High Court 1 in Jos, Mann sentenced Sgt. Ruya Auta to death by hanging or lethal injection after finding him guilty of culpable homicide. The ruling followed careful consideration of evidence, witness testimonies, and circumstances surrounding Bala’s death.
The court stressed that the sentence is aimed at upholding the rule of law and ensuring accountability, particularly in cases involving unlawful use of force and firearms. Stakeholders across Plateau State have described the verdict as a key step toward restoring public confidence in the justice system.
Reports from the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) indicate that Rinji Bala, a 300-level student, was shot on May 12, 2020, after being detained with two friends near the Hwolshe area of Jos during the COVID-19 lockdown. Although no incriminating evidence was found on them, they were beaten and released. As they ran, Bala was shot in the back, resulting in his immediate death.
Dr. Garba Pwul (SAN), prosecuting counsel for the state, said justice had been served. “The judgment was actually expected as the convict didn’t deny the offence, he, however, said it was accidental discharge. The prosecution was able to show that the convict had the intent of shooting the victim, as he was shot in the back on his waist,” he said. Paul added that the respondent has the constitutional right to appeal, though no notice had been received.
Reacting to the verdict, Bala’s father, Peter Bala, said no sane person celebrates the death of another, but acknowledged that “the law is the law.” He expressed hope that the ruling would act as a deterrent to negligent security personnel.
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