An Upper Shariah Court sitting in Kano has sentenced Shafiu Abubakar to death by hanging for setting fire to worshippers during early morning prayers at a mosque in Gadan village, Gezawa Local Government Area of the State.
The tragic incident, which occurred in May 2024, claimed the lives of 23 people — some died on the spot, while others succumbed to their injuries while receiving treatment at the Murtala Muhammed Specialist Hospital.
Delivering judgment on Monday, the presiding judge, Halhalatu Zakariya, found Shafiu Abubakar guilty of culpable homicide, attempted homicide, causing grievous injury, and mischief by fire — offenses contrary to Sections 143, 148, and 370 of the Kano State Shariah Penal Code Law 2000.
In addition to the death sentence, the court ordered that the convict receive 150 lashes of the cane, pay a fine of N1,500, and forfeit his motorcycle to the Kano State Government.
The proceeds from the sale of the motorcycle are to be used for the repair of the damaged mosque.
