A Jigawa State High Court sitting in Dutse has sentenced two individuals, Hamimu Awwalu and Ashiru Salisu, to death by hanging after finding them guilty of culpable homicide. Justice Ahmed Abubakar, who presided over High Court No. 4, delivered the ruling on Friday following a detailed review of the case.
The convicts, both residents of Sabalari Village in Dutse Local Government Area, were charged with conspiracy, deceitful abduction for ransom, and culpable homicide.
The prosecution presented four witnesses whose testimonies helped establish the case beyond a reasonable doubt, while the defense called two witnesses in an attempt to counter the allegations.
In his judgment, Justice Abubakar stated that Awwalu and Salisu were responsible for the death of Tahir Adamu Hassan on April 4, 2024, at Sabalari Village.
He affirmed that the prosecution had successfully demonstrated their intent in causing the victim’s death.
“The prosecution proved its case beyond reasonable doubt, establishing that the convicts had intentionally caused the death of the victim,” the judge ruled.
As part of the sentencing, the court imposed a one-year prison term for the offense of conspiracy.
However, for the abduction and homicide charges, the court handed down a death sentence by hanging.
Despite acknowledging that the convicts had expressed remorse, Justice Abubakar maintained that the law must take its course.
Providing further insights into the ruling, the Director of Publicity and Protocol for the Jigawa State Judiciary, Mr. Abbas Wangara, explained that the convicts were found guilty under Sections 96 and 97 of the Penal Code Law Cap. P3 Laws of Jigawa State, 2012.
“This judgment serves as a reminder that the justice system will not tolerate violent crimes and will hold perpetrators accountable for their actions,” Wangara emphasized.
He added that the ruling underscores the judiciary’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring justice for victims and their families.
