Gombe Court Sentences Magistrate to Two Years, Six Months Imprisonment Over N1 Million Bribery

A High Court in Gombe has sentenced a magistrate, Mohammed Suleiman Kumo, to two years and six months imprisonment after finding him guilty of receiving a N1 million bribe.

The judgment was delivered by Justice H.H. Kereng, who held that the prosecution had proven its case beyond reasonable doubt based on evidence and testimonies presented before the court.

Kumo was initially arraigned on December 3, 2025, on a three-count charge bordering on bribery and abuse of office filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

According to the anti-graft agency, investigations revealed that the convict received N1 million from an individual in exchange for influencing the outcome of a case before his court, an act said to be in violation of judicial ethics and the law.

During the trial, the prosecution presented witnesses and documentary evidence to establish the allegations, while the defence also argued its case before the court.

After reviewing the evidence, Justice Kereng ruled that the prosecution had established the offences and subsequently sentenced Kumo to two years and six months in prison.

The court, however, gave the convict an option of a N250,000 fine.

The judgment is seen as a significant step in the fight against corruption within Nigeria’s judicial system, as anti-corruption agencies intensify efforts to ensure accountability and integrity in public institutions.