A Kano Upper Shariah Court has fixed August 1 to deliver judgement on the second and third charges against Shafiu Abubakar, the alleged mastermind behind the mosque arson that killed 23 people in May. The defendant, who pleaded guilty to all four-count charges, is facing trial for culpable homicide, attempted murder, causing grievous hurt, and mischief by fire.
During the last sitting, the prosecution counsel requested permission to file a new charge with the exact number of victims and names. The defendant allegedly used petrol to set the mosque on fire during dawn prayers, resulting in 23 deaths and two serious injuries.
The defence counsel has asked the court to temper justice with mercy, considering the defendant’s guilty plea. The presiding judge, Malam Halhalatul Huza’i Zakariyya, adjourned the case until August 1 and 2 for judgement on the second and third charges and hearing on the first and fourth charges.
