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Kebbi State High Court on Monday, June 3, 2024 delivered a verdict that has sent shockwaves through the community after Farida Abubakar, an ex-wife of Chief Magistrate Attahiru Muhammad Ibrahim, was sentenced to death by hanging for the murder of her former husband.

The gruesome incident unfolded when Chief Magistrate Ibrahim was stabbed to death with a sharp object, sustaining fatal wounds to his abdomen, neck, and left arm.

The Trial and Conviction

During the trial, the prosecution presented compelling evidence linking Farida Abubakar to the crime. The court established that she was the last person seen with the deceased in his house in Birnin Kebbi before he was found dead.

Circumstantial evidence, including the blood-smeared hijab worn by Farida, pointed to her guilt. The court concluded that she had meticulously planned and executed the attack, fully aware of the consequences of her actions.

Justice Umar Abubakar, the Chief Judge of Kebbi State, emphasized that the burden of proof rested on the prosecution to establish guilt beyond reasonable doubt.

With the extrajudicial statement of the accused and the testimony of 12 prosecution witnesses, the court found Farida Abubakar guilty of culpable homicide and bodily harm. The timing of the offense was particularly damning, as it occurred just as Chief Magistrate Ibrahim was about to marry a new wife.

Sentencing and Mitigation

While delivering the judgment, Justice Abubakar pronounced the death sentence by hanging in accordance with section 191(b) of the penal code law of Kebbi State. Additionally, Farida Abubakar received a 7-year prison term for causing bodily harm, as stipulated by section 224(1) of the same law.

The defence counsel, Mudashiru Sani, pleaded for leniency, highlighting that Farida was a first-time offender with aged parents who relied on her support.

The lawyer also emphasised the need of her young daughter for motherly care.

But the Prosecuting Counsel, Lawal Hudu Garba, urged the court to uphold the letter of the law as a deterrent to others who might contemplate similar heinous acts.

Impact on Society

The case, assording to media reports, has sparked discussions about domestic violence, marital disputes, and the role of the legal system in addressing such crimes, serving as a stark reminder that violence within families can have devastating consequences.

As the community grapples with the aftermath, questions arise about preventive measures, awareness campaigns, and support systems for victims and potential offenders.

The Kebbi State High Court’s verdict has underscored the gravity of the offense and sends a clear message that justice will prevail, regardless of social status or personal circumstances.

The tragic loss of Chief Magistrate Attahiru Muhammad Ibrahim will forever be etched in the memory of those who witnessed the harrowing trial.

However, the fate of Farida Abubakar now rests on the outcome of any potential appeals. As the community reflects on this tragedy, it is a somber reminder of the fragility of human life and the need for vigilance in preventing violence within our homes and communities.

ABUJA BUSINESS REPORTS NEWSPAPER & MAGAZINE