A Kano State High Court has sentenced Abdulaziz Umar to death by hanging for the murder of Mubarak Salisu during a robbery incident in Kano on October 1, 2020. The judgment, delivered on Monday by Justice Zuwaira Yusuf, confirmed that the prosecution had proven the case beyond reasonable doubt, leading to a conviction on all charges. The victim, Mubarak Salisu, was attacked and robbed of his Samsung phone, valued at N100,000, at around 6:00 pm at the Race Course in Badawa, Kano. The court found that Umar and his accomplices acted with intent to cause harm, using a knife to stab the victim, resulting in his death.
Justice Yusuf ruled that the defendant was guilty of criminal conspiracy, armed robbery, culpable homicide punishable with death, and brigandage under the Penal Code Law of Kano State. The prosecution, led by Aisha Salisu, Deputy Director of Public Prosecution in the Kano State Ministry of Justice, presented four witnesses whose testimonies directly linked Umar to the crime. The defence, represented by Ya’u Abdullahi Umar, called only the accused to testify, but this did not sway the court’s decision. The judge emphasized that the defendant’s actions were premeditated and carried out with full knowledge that they could lead to fatal consequences.
The robbery was carried out in the presence of several accomplices, including Muyi, Umar Sarki, Diga, Ashosho, and Taduke, who remain at large. Despite efforts to apprehend them, law enforcement has not yet succeeded in locating the other suspects. The court’s decision underscores the seriousness with which Kano State authorities treat violent crimes, particularly those involving armed robbery and murder. The death penalty was imposed in accordance with the state’s penal code, which allows for capital punishment in cases of culpable homicide and brigandage.
This case highlights the ongoing challenges of insecurity in urban areas of Northern Nigeria, where armed robberies continue to threaten public safety. The sentencing sends a strong message to potential offenders that violent crimes will be met with severe legal consequences. The family of Mubarak Salisu has welcomed the verdict, calling it long overdue justice. The case also raises questions about the effectiveness of police operations in tracking down remaining suspects. As the legal process continues, the public is reminded of the importance of reporting suspicious activities and cooperating with law enforcement to reduce crime. The judgment marks a significant moment in the fight against armed robbery and murder in Kano, and it may influence future rulings in similar cases across the state.
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