A Kano State High Court has sentenced Aminu Muhammad to death by hanging for the murder of three-year-old Rafi'atu Junaidu in Jibga village, Bebeji Local Government Area. The ruling, delivered by Justice Maryam Sabo, concludes a seven-year legal battle following the shocking 2018 killing.
Court records revealed that Muhammad lured the child from her home to a nearby farm where he strangled her. In a disturbing act of violence, he then used a broken bottle to cut open her abdomen and removed her intestines.
During the trial at the High Court sitting on Miller Road, prosecuting counsel Barrister Badawiyya Shehu Bala presented three witnesses and investigative findings that proved the defendant's guilt beyond reasonable doubt. The defence presented only one item of evidence in support of the accused.
Evidence presented in court suggested that Muhammad had allegedly been promised N400,000 by an unknown individual to carry out the killing. Authorities have indicated that investigations are ongoing to identify the alleged sponsor of the crime.
In her ruling, Justice Sabo described the crime as "inhuman and brutal," emphasizing that the judgment should serve as a deterrent to others. She reaffirmed the court's dedication to justice, particularly in cases involving children.
"The court finds the accused guilty as charged and hereby sentences him to death by hanging," Justice Sabo declared in her verdict.
The case has drawn significant attention across Kano State, highlighting concerns about child safety and the justice system's response to violent crimes against minors.
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