A Kano State High Court has sentenced five men to death by hanging for the murder of 67-year-old Dahare Abubakar, whom they accused of being a witch.
The convicted individuals – Da’luta Ibrahim, Abdulaziz Yahaya, Faisal Yahaya, Ibrahim Abdu, and Ayuba Abdulrahman – were found guilty of culpable homicide in connection with the brutal attack that took place on November 15, 2023, in Dadin Kowa Village, Wudil Local Government Area of Kano State.
Delivering the judgment on Monday, Justice Usman Na’abba ruled that the prosecution had proven its case beyond a reasonable doubt.
“I hereby sentence the defendants to death by hanging for homicide and acquit Nabi’a Ibrahim, the sixth defendant, as evidence shows she was not at the scene,” Justice Na’abba declared.
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The prosecution counsel, Lamido Abba-Sorondinki, detailed in court that the convicts conspired to attack the victim at around 8:30 am, suspecting her of practicing witchcraft.
They trailed her to her farm and fatally stabbed her with dangerous weapons. Medical personnel at Wudil General Hospital later confirmed her death.
The prosecution presented four witnesses and two exhibits, including the defendants’ statements and a medical report, to substantiate the case. Although the defendants denied the charges and called eight witnesses in their defense, the judge found their testimonies unconvincing.
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The case has drawn widespread reactions, with human rights advocates emphasizing the need for public enlightenment to curb harmful traditional beliefs that lead to violent acts.
Authorities have urged citizens to seek legal means in addressing grievances rather than resorting to violence and jungle justice.
The convicted individuals now face the ultimate penalty under Nigerian law, pending any appeals they may pursue.