Lagos, Nigeria | September 9, 2025
A magistrate court in Lagos has sentenced two bakery workers to community service after they were found guilty of stealing loaves of bread from their employer.
The defendants, identified as bakery staff in the Agege area, were arraigned on charges of theft following a complaint by the bakery owner, who accused them of repeatedly diverting bread meant for sale.
During the proceedings, the magistrate noted that while the offence was criminal, the value of the stolen items was relatively small. In delivering judgment, the court ordered the workers to serve hours of community service instead of custodial sentences, stressing that the punishment should serve as both deterrence and rehabilitation.
The presiding magistrate further warned that future infractions would attract stiffer penalties, urging the defendants to demonstrate integrity in their work.
Residents and local observers welcomed the ruling, describing it as a balanced approach that delivers justice without worsening social hardship.
