The 16th Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, has described the killing of 35-year-old Fatima Abubakar and her six children as a “barbaric act” and a serious indictment of Nigeria’s justice system.
In a statement on the tragedy, which occurred last Saturday, the Emir offered condolences to the family of the deceased, her husband, and the people of Kano State, noting that the incident had deeply shocked the conscience of the community.
Emir Sanusi warned that violent crimes would continue if murderers are not held fully accountable. He decried the repeated failure to enforce court judgments, highlighting that many convicted murderers avoid execution due to delays or refusal to sign execution warrants.
He criticised political leaders for intervening with pardons in murder cases, stressing that the right to forgive rests solely with the victim’s family and God. He said clemency may be suitable for offences such as theft, but murder should be treated differently, with strict enforcement of the law.
Calling for a return to justice and certainty of punishment, including the death penalty where provided by law, the Emir said decisive action would serve as a deterrent to others. He praised the Nigeria Police for swiftly apprehending suspects and urged the judiciary to ensure they are promptly tried.
Emir Sanusi expressed hope that the state government would act decisively after judgment, signing execution warrants without delay, sending a clear message that such crimes will not be tolerated.
