Justice Served in Nigeria: Five Convicted for Wrongful Witchcraft-Related Murder

Legal Action Taken Against False Accusations

In a landmark case in Nigeria’s Kano state, five men have been sentenced to death by hanging for the tragic murder of 67-year-old Dahare Abubakar. The incident, which took place in 2023, was based on wrongful accusations of witchcraft, highlighting the dangers of superstition-driven violence.

Ms. Abubakar was working on her farm when the convicted men attacked her, brutally beating and stabbing her. Her family promptly reported the case, leading to the swift arrest of the perpetrators in a village 45 km (28 miles) from Kano, the largest city in northern Nigeria.

Addressing Superstitions and Justice System Efficiency

The case ignited discussions across Nigeria, shedding light on how unfounded accusations of witchcraft continue to cause harm, particularly in rural areas. Many such accusations arise from personal misfortunes, with accusers often blaming others for deaths, illnesses, or hardships.

During the trial, Judge Usman Na’abba stated that the prosecution had proven beyond reasonable doubt that the accused were responsible for the crime. Prosecutor Abba Sorondiki emphasized that this judgment should serve as a deterrent, preventing others from making baseless claims that lead to violence.

Understanding the Tragic Incident

Court proceedings revealed that the crime was instigated when the sick wife of one of the accused, Abdulaziz Yahaya, claimed to have had a dream where Ms. Abubakar was pursuing her with a knife. Following this, Yahaya gathered a group that confronted and ultimately killed Ms. Abubakar.

“There have been similar cases like this, but this is the first time we are seeing up to five people sentenced to death for murder over wrongful witchcraft accusations,” Sorondiki told the BBC.

Seeking Justice for the Victim and Her Family

The victim’s son, Musa Yahaya, expressed a sense of closure, stating that justice had been served. “I am happy because they would get the same treatment they meted out to my mother,” he said.

Meanwhile, the defense lawyer, Ma’aruf Yakasai, announced that his clients intend to appeal against the verdict.

The Rarity of the Death Penalty in Nigeria

Although the five men have been sentenced to death, Nigeria rarely carries out executions. Most convicted individuals spend their lives in prison on death row. However, this ruling sends a strong message against superstitious violence and the unlawful taking of justice into one’s own hands.

Promoting Awareness and Ending Harmful Practices

The case serves as a significant step in addressing the issue of witchcraft-related violence in Nigeria. Authorities and human rights organizations continue to advocate for increased awareness, legal protection, and community education to prevent such incidents in the future.