Kano Court Sentences Woman to Death for Killing Husband Nine Days After Wedding
A Kano State High Court has sentenced 19-year-old Saudat Jibrin to death by hanging for the murder of her husband, Salisu Idris, just nine days after their wedding.
Justice Maryam Sabo delivered the judgment on Thursday after a 14-month trial, ruling that the prosecution had proved the charge of culpable homicide beyond reasonable doubt.
Jibrin, who is from Kumbotso Local Government Area of Kano State, was arrested in May 2025 and arraigned on a one-count charge of culpable homicide.
In her judgment, Justice Sabo said the seriousness of the offence justified the maximum punishment provided by law, adding that such sentences also serve as a deterrent to others.
The court informed the convict that she has the right to appeal the judgment within the time allowed by law.
During the trial, the prosecution, led by Lamido Abba Sorondinki, told the court that Jibrin allegedly poisoned her husband’s zobo drink before stabbing him with a knife at about 9 p.m. on the day of the incident.
The prosecution said the attack led to the victim’s death and that investigations later resulted in Jibrin’s arrest.
Two witnesses testified for the state, which argued that the offence violated Section 221(a) of the Penal Code.
In his plea for mercy, defence lawyer Abdulfatah Muhammad urged the court to consider his client’s conduct while in custody.
He said Jibrin had memorised the Holy Qur’an during her detention and appealed for leniency, noting that she is the first child of her family and plays an important role in supporting her younger siblings.
Reacting to the judgment, the Kano State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Abdulkarim Kabiru Maude (SAN), described the conviction as a significant step in the state’s justice system.
He praised the prosecuting counsel for his professionalism and dedication throughout the trial.
“This conviction is another clear demonstration of our resolve to ensure that anyone who violates the law is held accountable, irrespective of status or circumstance,” Maude said.
He added that the Kano State Government remains committed to strengthening the justice sector and ensuring that offenders are brought to justice.
The case drew widespread public attention because the victim was killed less than two weeks after the couple got married.
