US Rep urges FG to pardon Adamawa farmer who killed attacker in self-defence

Story by Okafor Vivian 

Riley Moore, a member of the United States House of Representatives, has called on the Nigerian government to grant pardon to Sunday Jackson, an Adamawa farmer sentenced to death for killing an attacker in what he maintains was self-defence.

Jackson was reportedly working on his farm when a suspected herder, armed with a knife, allegedly attempted to attack him. Jackson overpowered the assailant during the struggle, leading to the attacker’s death.

In 2021, an Adamawa High Court sentenced Jackson to death, ruling that he could have fled the scene instead of stabbing his attacker. The Supreme Court reaffirmed the judgement on March 7.

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Speaking during a congressional hearing on allegations of Christian genocide in Nigeria, Moore referenced constitutional provisions that prevent civilians from bearing arms. He alleged that authorities often ignore situations where “Fulani militants” openly carry weapons.

Moore argued that Jackson acted to save his life and therefore deserves clemency.
“I would urge the Nigerian government to consider pardoning Sunday Jackson, who was fighting for his own life against one of these Fulani militants,” he said.

“That militant lost his life in the struggle, yet Jackson now faces the death penalty. Where is the justice in that? Fulani militants are breaking Nigerian law, roaming with AK-47s with no consequences, while someone who disarmed an attacker with a knife is sentenced to death.”

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The US lawmaker urged the Nigerian government to prioritise security and ensure better protection of lives across the country.

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