The Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, has appealed to the Governor of Kano State, Abba Yusuf, to sign the death warrants of individuals convicted of murder, arguing that the enforcement of capital punishment would serve as a strong deterrent against violent crimes. The monarch made the call following the recent killing of a housewife, Fatima Abubakar, and her six children in the state.
Sanusi described the incident as a shocking and tragic event that has deeply affected the state. He said the attack reflected a broader failure in society to ensure justice and enforce existing laws meant to punish severe crimes such as murder.
Reacting to the incident, the Emir expressed condolences to the husband of the deceased, the family, and the people of Kano State. He stressed that repeated acts of violence would continue if perpetrators of murder are not made to face the full consequences prescribed by law.
According to Sanusi, the lack of enforcement of death sentences has weakened the justice system. He noted that there are cases where individuals convicted of murder, including those who plead guilty, are sentenced to death by hanging, yet the punishment is never carried out because the execution warrants are not signed by state governors.
The Emir said this practice sends the wrong message to society and emboldens criminals. He argued that leaders should not hesitate to authorize the execution of convicted murderers, stating that such individuals showed no mercy to their victims and therefore should not be shown pity.
Sanusi further stated that pardoning convicted murderers undermines justice. He maintained that the right to forgive a murderer does not lie with the government, but with the victim’s family and, ultimately, with God.
He criticized the use of the prerogative of mercy in murder cases, noting that it is inappropriate to extend such clemency in crimes involving the loss of life. According to him, there is a clear distinction between crimes committed against the government, such as financial offenses, and murder.
The Emir emphasized that justice demands that those who unlawfully take another person’s life should face the ultimate punishment. He said that if potential offenders know that murder will lead to certain execution, it would discourage others from committing similar crimes.
Sanusi also commended the Kano State Police Command for the swift arrest of suspects linked to the killings. He called for a speedy trial, urging the judiciary to ensure that the case is handled without unnecessary delays.
He added that once the court reaches a verdict and delivers judgment, the governor should promptly sign the death warrants if the suspects are convicted. According to him, decisive action would help restore public confidence in the justice system.
In a related development, the Kano State Government has pledged to intensify efforts to curb violent crimes across the state. The Commissioner for Internal Security, Air Vice Marshal Ibrahim Umaru (retd), made this known during a condolence visit to the family of the deceased in Chiranci quarters, Kumbotso Local Government Area.
The commissioner expressed shock over the incident and described the killings as disturbing. He assured the bereaved family that the government would not tolerate such crimes and would take firm steps to prevent a recurrence.
Umaru praised the prompt response of the police and other security agencies in arresting the suspected attackers. He said the government remains committed to strengthening security structures in the state.
He reaffirmed the determination of Governor Abba Yusuf to equip security agencies and support the newly established Neighborhood Watch initiative. According to him, these measures are aimed at improving the protection of lives and property across Kano State.
Addressing possible causes of rising violence, the commissioner identified drug abuse and unemployment among youths as major contributing factors. He said the state government, in collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, would intensify efforts to tackle drug addiction.
Umaru also called on parents and community leaders to support government initiatives by monitoring and guiding young people. He stressed that community involvement is essential in addressing social problems linked to crime.
As part of immediate support to the affected family, the commissioner presented relief materials, including bags of rice, cartons of spaghetti and pasta, as well as a cash donation of one million naira. He described the assistance as temporary relief to help the family cope with their loss.
The tragic incident has continued to generate discussions across Kano State, with many residents calling for stronger enforcement of laws and improved security. The appeal by Emir Sanusi has further brought the debate over capital punishment and justice to the forefront of public discourse.
