- Five men sentenced to death in Kano State for the 2023 murder of Dahare Abubakar.
- Victim, a 67-year-old woman, was beaten and stabbed to death on her farm.
- The attack was triggered by a dream of one assailant’s wife.
- Judge Usman Na’abba ruled the prosecution proved its case beyond a reasonable doubt.
- The case highlights continued violence over witchcraft accusations in Nigeria.
In a landmark ruling, a high court in Kano State, Nigeria, has sentenced five men to death by hanging for the murder of 67-year-old Dahare Abubakar. The verdict, delivered by Judge Usman Na’abba, confirmed that the prosecution proved the case beyond a reasonable doubt. The killing occurred in 2023 when the men attacked Abubakar on her farm.
The case has drawn national attention, highlighting ongoing violence linked to witchcraft accusations. Such incidents frequently occur in rural Nigeria, where unfounded superstitions often drive people to target others. Human rights activists argue that authorities must enforce stronger laws to prevent similar tragedies.
The Murder and Arrests
Five men attacked and killed an elderly woman in Dadin Kowa, a village 45 kilometers from Kano, Nigeria. Abubakar was working on her farm when they arrived. They beat and stabbed her multiple times, leaving her dead at the scene.
The attack started after Abdulaziz Yahaya’s sick wife claimed she had a dream. In it, Abubakar chased her with a knife. Yahaya gathered a group and confronted the elderly woman. This confrontation quickly turned violent, ending in her tragic murder.
After the killing, Abubakar’s family reported it to the authorities. Law enforcement arrested the suspects and took them to court. The trial gained nationwide attention, highlighting the ongoing issue of violent witchcraft accusations in Nigeria.
Witchcraft Accusations and Violence in Nigeria
Many Nigerians, especially in rural areas, blame witches for misfortunes like illness, death, or financial struggles. Accused individuals, often elderly women and children, suffer harsh consequences. They face public beatings, exile, or even death. Fear and superstition keep this dangerous belief alive, making life risky for those labeled as witches.
Reports from human rights groups reveal shocking punishments. Some accused are burned, stoned, or forced to consume harmful substances. Children have even been abandoned by their families over these claims. Advocacy groups are fighting for legal reforms to protect vulnerable people and end these brutal practices.
Court’s Verdict and Reactions
During the trial, prosecutor Abba Sorondiki emphasized that the five men acted on a baseless claim, leading to the tragic murder of an innocent woman. He stated that the ruling should serve as a warning to others who might consider taking the law into their own hands.
“This is the first time we have seen five people sentenced to death for murder over a false witchcraft accusation,” Sorondiki said. He expressed hope that the judgment would deter similar crimes in the future.
The victim’s son, Musa Yahaya, described his mother’s death as the worst moment of his life. Reacting to the court’s decision, he said, “I am happy because they would get the same treatment they gave my mother.”
Legal and Social Implications
Defense lawyer Ma’aruf Yakasai said his clients would appeal the verdict. Nigeria has the death penalty for serious crimes, but executions rarely happen. Many people on death row serve life sentences instead of facing execution.
This case has fueled debates on stopping violence linked to witchcraft accusations. Experts stress the need for better education, stronger legal protections, and community awareness. These steps can help prevent such tragic incidents.
The sentencing of five men to death sets a major legal precedent in Nigeria. It exposes the dangers of superstition-driven violence and highlights the need for stricter law enforcement. As discussions continue, human rights advocates push for reforms to prevent more violence.