A Kano State High Court has sentenced 19-year-old Saudat Jibrin to death by hanging after finding her guilty of murdering her husband, Salisu Idris, just nine days after their wedding.
The judgment was delivered by Justice Maryam Sabo, who ruled that the prosecution proved the charge of culpable homicide beyond reasonable doubt.
According to the court, Jibrin has 90 days to file an appeal against the conviction.
Court Hands Down Death Sentence
Justice Maryam Sabo sentenced the 19-year-old to death by hanging after concluding that the evidence presented during the trial established her guilt.
While delivering the judgment, the judge stated that the prosecution had successfully proven the offence beyond reasonable doubt.
The court also informed the convict that she has the legal right to challenge the verdict before the Court of Appeal within 90 days.
Husband Allegedly Poisoned and Stabbed Nine Days After Marriage
The incident occurred on May 5, 2025, at Farawa Quarters in Kano.
During the trial, prosecutors told the court that the couple had been married for only nine days when the incident happened.
The prosecution alleged that Saudat Jibrin laced her husband Salisu Idris’ “Zoho” drink with poison before attacking him with a knife and slashing his throat.
The victim, identified as 30-year-old Salisu Idris, died from the attack.
Prosecution Presented Witnesses
The prosecution called two witnesses during the trial to support its case.
According to the prosecution, the evidence presented clearly established that the defendant was responsible for the killing.
The charge was filed under Section 221(a) of the Penal Code, which prescribes the death penalty for culpable homicide.
Throughout the proceedings, Saudat Jibrin denied committing the offence.
Defence Asked Court for Mercy
During sentencing, defence counsel Abdulfatah Muhammad urged the court to show leniency.
He told the court that the defendant had undergone significant personal change while in custody and had memorised the entire Holy Qur’an.
The lawyer also appealed for compassion, explaining that Jibrin is the first child of her parents and that her younger siblings depend on her for support.
Despite the plea, the court maintained that the evidence supported a conviction and imposed the death sentence by hanging.
Convict Has Right to Appeal
Under Nigerian law, individuals sentenced to death have the right to appeal their convictions.
