Emotional Testimony Unfolds in Court Over Alleged Murder of Village Head.
By Yahaya Zakka Minna
In a poignant courtroom scene filled with tears and sorrow, the high court sitting in Suleja, presided over by Justice Aisha Wodu Bawa, began hearing testimonies related to the alleged murder of Mohammed Abdulsafur, the former village head of Lambata.
The atmosphere was charged as witnesses recounted the tragic events surrounding the attack that claimed the life of the respected community leader.
One witness, who was also a victim of the assault, described in harrowing detail how she observed the attackers brutally machete the village head to death. Overcome with emotion, she recounted her own injuries sustained during the incident, including a fractured limb.
The witness further revealed how one assailant severely injured her husband by smashing a wooden object into his face, damaging one of his eyes.
Additionally, the witness alleged that some of the attackers—armed with machetes, axes, and other dangerous weapons—violently invaded the family compound, assaulting the elderly mother of the deceased before ultimately killing Abdulsafur.
During cross-examination, she asserted that her statement presented by the defense counsel had been tampered with, claiming her signature was forged.
Earlier in the proceedings, another witness, Mohammed Ibrahim, detailed how the attackers invaded his family home, killing his elder brother and vandalizing his property.
He described the destruction, which included damage to his car and serious injury to himself.
Justice Aisha Wodu Bawa expressed her deep concern over the serious nature of the charges against the suspects, emphasizing the importance of truthfulness in their testimonies.
She urged those in court not to protect one another at the expense of justice, affirming her commitment to ensuring that only the guilty would face punishment, while innocent individuals would be exonerated.
The judge also praised the professionalism displayed by both counsels throughout the proceedings and reminded them of their vital responsibility in the pursuit of justice.
She reflected on the moral obligation of every individual to account for their actions, encouraging all parties to remain committed to truth and justice.
The court has adjourned the hearing to the 6th and 7th of March for further testimonies.
