The Bauchi State Ministry of Justice has disclosed a disturbing catalogue of violent crimes recorded within the state over the past legal year, painting a grim picture of security challenges faced by residents.
Shocking Statistics Unveiled
During the ceremony marking the commencement of the 2025-2026 legal year, the State’s Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Barr. Hassan Usman (SAN), presented the official figures. The data, covering the period from December 2024 to December 2025, revealed a total of 75 homicide cases.
In addition to the killings, the ministry received reports of 86 rape cases and 28 kidnapping incidents. The broader criminal caseload was substantial, with 91 robbery cases filed, an increase from 83 in the previous period. Overall, the ministry received a total of 592 criminal cases.
Of these hundreds of cases, the outcomes were as follows:
- 97 cases have been disposed of.
- 15 cases were discharged based on legal advice.
- A staggering 454 cases remain pending in the system.
Systemic Challenges and Judicial Reforms
In her address, the State’s Chief Judge, Justice Rabi Umar, highlighted a major procedural flaw hampering justice delivery. She lamented the “recurrent practice of arraigning suspects in court without proper preliminary investigations.”
Justice Umar criticised this backward approach, noting that evidence gathering often only begins after a trial has started, causing significant delays. “It is unacceptable that in 2025, we continue to see such practices,” she stated, adding that this erodes public confidence and contributes to case backlogs.
To address this, a committee has been established to review the Bauchi State Administration of Criminal Justice Law and produce a draft law intended to modernise procedures. Furthermore, the Chief Judge affirmed a strict stance on professional decorum, warning that lawyers failing to adhere to the prescribed dress code would be barred from court appearances.
Government Response and Support
Facing this high volume of cases, the Ministry of Justice developed strategies to fast-track prosecutions. These efforts align with criminal justice laws emphasising speedy trials, including setting strict timelines for filing charges.
Barr. Usman also acknowledged the support of Governor Bala Mohammed. The Governor approved the release of N7.8 million for purchasing law books and practice materials for the ministry's library. Additionally, he authorised monthly funds to settle all outstanding judgment debts owed by the state government.
Governor Mohammed, represented by his deputy, Alh. Auwal Jatau, reiterated that the three arms of government in Bauchi continue to work harmoniously while maintaining their constitutional autonomy. He emphasised providing the necessary support to ensure the judiciary can operate optimally without hindrance.
