A Kano State High Court has delivered a final and somber verdict in a case of fatal violence that shattered a community celebration, sentencing a young man to death for the murder of his neighbour.
Death Sentence for Fatal Stabbing at Celebration
Justice Farida Dabappa of the Kano State High Court sentenced 22-year-old Najibullah Alkasim to death by hanging. The court found him guilty of culpable homicide in the killing of his neighbour, Isyaku Ya'u. The tragic incident occurred on January 19, 2024, at a party in the Dakata Quarters area of Kano.
The court heard that the party was organised to celebrate an election victory. What began as a festive gathering descended into a violent dispute between Alkasim and the deceased. During the argument, Alkasim allegedly stabbed Ya'u in the chest with a screwdriver, leading to his death.
Prosecution Proves Case Beyond Reasonable Doubt
In her ruling, Justice Dabappa held that the prosecution team, led by Counsel Lamido Abba-Sorondinki, successfully proved the charge of culpable homicide beyond any reasonable doubt. The court's conviction was based on a robust body of evidence presented during the trial.
The evidence included:
- Testimonies from four witnesses.
- A conclusive medical report.
- Photographic evidence.
- The murder weapon, the screwdriver.
- An alleged confessional statement from the defendant, Najibullah Alkasim.
Despite the evidence, Alkasim denied the allegations in court. His defence lawyer, Tasiu Daneji, presented three witnesses in an attempt to counter the prosecution's case. However, Justice Dabappa found the defence evidence insufficient to create doubt or overturn the compelling case built by the prosecution.
A Painful Chapter Closed, Another Begins
The court's verdict brings a formal legal conclusion to a painful chapter for the family of the victim, Isyaku Ya'u. For them, the ruling represents a measure of justice for a life brutally cut short.
Conversely, the sentence plunges the family of Najibullah Alkasim into a new phase of anguish, as they must now grapple with the severe consequences of a single, fatal moment of conflict. The tragedy is compounded by the fact that it erupted on a night meant for communal joy and celebration.
The case serves as a stark reminder of the devastating and permanent impact of violent altercations, transforming a victory celebration into a scene of lifelong loss for two families.
