Shafiu Abubakar Sentenced to Death by Hanging Over Kano Mosque Fire That Killed 11 Worshippers
In a significant judgment that has gripped the attention of Nigerians across the country, an Upper Shariah Court sitting in Kano State has sentenced one Shafiu Abubakar to death by hanging for a heinous crime that shook the entire nation. The tragic incident, which occurred on May 15, 2024, involved the deliberate burning of a mosque in Gadan Village, located in the Gezawa Local Government Area of Kano State.
This gruesome attack took place during the early morning prayers, a time when faithful Muslims had gathered peacefully to worship. According to eyewitnesses, chaos erupted when Abubakar reportedly poured petrol into the mosque and set it ablaze, trapping worshippers inside. The horrifying act resulted in the immediate death of 11 individuals, while others sustained severe injuries and later died in the hospital.
Tragedy at Dawn: The Gezawa Mosque Fire Incident
On that fateful morning, the peaceful serenity of Gadan Village was shattered. It was around 5:30 am when worshippers had gathered for the early morning (Subh) prayers, a time of devotion, peace, and solemn communion with God. But the unthinkable happened. A man, later identified as Shafiu Abubakar, entered the mosque with a container of petrol. Without warning, he doused the floor and set it on fire, locking the doors from outside to prevent people from escaping.
Within minutes, the mosque turned into an inferno. Survivors recounted the horror of struggling to find a way out amidst the thick smoke and raging flames. Sadly, 11 people died on the spot, while many others sustained burns and injuries. Several of the victims were rushed to the Murtala Muhammed Specialist Hospital in Kano, but some later succumbed to their injuries, raising the death toll even further.
The Shocking Motive
While the motive behind the attack remains disturbing, investigations revealed that the act was premeditated. According to sources familiar with the case, Abubakar had a dispute with some members of the mosque community over family inheritance issues. It is alleged that he believed the mosque community was siding against him, and in a deranged quest for vengeance, he decided to unleash terror in a place of worship.
Court Proceedings and Charges Against Shafiu Abubakar
On Monday, May 26, 2025, Shafiu Abubakar was brought before the Upper Shariah Court in Kano. The presiding judge, Halhatu Huza’i Zakariya, delivered a comprehensive judgment that reflected the gravity of the crimes committed.
The court found Abubakar guilty on all four charges brought against him. The charges, which are based on the Kano State Shariah Penal Code Law 2000, include:
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Culpable Homicide – for the murder of the worshippers who died in the mosque fire.
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Attempt to Commit Homicide – for those who survived but were seriously injured.
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Causing Grievous Hurt – relating to the severe injuries sustained by several victims.
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Mischief by Fire – for setting the mosque ablaze, thereby destroying property and sacred space.
These offenses fall under Sections 143, 148, and 370 of the Kano State Shariah legal code.
After reviewing all the evidence, including witness testimonies, hospital reports, and investigative findings, Justice Halhatu Huza’i Zakariya pronounced the sentence with firmness and clarity.
“The defendant is hereby sentenced to death by hanging for murder, in accordance with the provisions of Shariah law. For attempted murder, the defendant shall receive 100 strokes of cane. For causing grievous hurt, the court fines him N1,500, and for mischief by fire, he is to receive 50 strokes of cane,” the judge ruled.
Further Penalties and Asset Forfeiture
In addition to the corporal and capital punishments, the court also made an order concerning Abubakar's personal property. Specifically, the judge ordered that his motorcycle be forfeited to the Kano State Government. The government is to sell the motorcycle, and the proceeds are to be used in repairing the damaged mosque in Gadan Village.
This ruling not only delivers justice for the lives lost but also emphasizes restitution for the damage inflicted on the sacred mosque building, which remains a symbol of unity and faith for the Gadan community.
Public Reaction to the Sentence
The court's decision has been met with widespread approval from the public, especially within the Kano Muslim community. Many Nigerians have taken to social media to express their grief over the original tragedy and satisfaction that justice has now been served.
Religious and community leaders in Gezawa commended the swift legal proceedings. One local imam, who spoke under anonymity, said:
“This judgment will help heal the wounds of the community. It sends a message that no one, no matter how angry or aggrieved, should take the law into their own hands, especially not in a place of worship.”
A Wake-Up Call on Mental Health and Conflict Resolution
While the court’s judgment brings closure to many, the incident also opens a wider conversation about mental health, conflict resolution, and the importance of community dialogue. Observers argue that if there had been proper mediation and support systems in place, perhaps Abubakar’s grievances would not have escalated into such devastating violence.
The Kano State Government has since reaffirmed its commitment to promoting peace and security in all communities. The Commissioner for Religious Affairs stated in a press release:
“Places of worship must remain safe havens, not battlegrounds. This tragic event is a reminder that as a society, we must strengthen our values of tolerance, dialogue, and lawful dispute resolution.”
Final Thoughts
The sentencing of Shafiu Abubakar is not just a judgment on an individual—it is a landmark moment in Kano's judicial history and a stern warning to anyone who may contemplate taking justice into their own hands. It reaffirms the strength of the Shariah legal system in maintaining law and order and delivering justice, even in the face of shocking and deeply tragic crimes.
As the community in Gadan Village continues to mourn and rebuild, this case stands as a somber reminder of the sanctity of life and the importance of justice in preserving peace.
