By Sabiu Abdullahi
A ruling was passed in Kano as Chief Judge Justice Dije Aboki sentenced five vigilante group members to death by hanging.
The verdict stemmed from their involvement in the tragic extra-judicial killing of 17-year-old Ahmed Musa on January 22, 2022, at Sabon Titi, Panshekara, Kumbotso Local Government Area.
The convicted individuals, associated with Sani Abacha Youth Centre, were identified as Emmanuel Korau, Elisha Ayuba, Irimiya Timothy, Auwalu Jafar, and Mustapha Haladu.
Counsel Lamido Dinki led the prosecution, unveiling a harrowing tale of a vicious attack on Musa as he crossed Sabon Titi, Panshekara Road.
Descending from a tricycle armed with a wooden club, the defendants brutally assaulted Musa.
Attempting to evade the attack, Musa suffered a fatal stab wound to his neck from the first defendant’s sharp knife.
Subsequently, the assailants forcibly dragged him into their waiting tricycle, leaving Musa fatally injured.
Despite prompt efforts, Ahmed Musa succumbed to his injuries upon arrival at the Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital Kano.
Prosecutor Lamido Dinki built a compelling case with the testimony of five witnesses, establishing the culpability of the defendants.
The defence, under Ahmad Muhammad, presented the convicted individuals and an additional person, all of whom vehemently denied the charges.
The defendants asserted they approached Musa for arrest based on a complaint lodged against him.
However, Justice Aboki, presiding over the case, expressed satisfaction with the prosecution’s evidence and praised the diligent work of Lamido Abba Soron Dinki.
“The prosecution has presented its case beyond reasonable doubt. I, hereby, sentence the five defendants to death by hanging,” declared Justice Aboki.
This ruling sends a powerful message against extra-judicial violence, noting the court’s commitment to upholding justice and preserving the sanctity of human life.