A High Court in Birnin Kudu, Jigawa State, has sentenced Bashir A. Umar to life imprisonment after finding him guilty of raping a nine-year-old girl in Dutse.
Justice Musa Ubale of High Court No. 6 delivered the judgment, ruling that the prosecution had proved its case beyond reasonable doubt on counts of rape and causing grievous bodily harm.
The court sentenced the convict to life imprisonment for rape and an additional seven years for grievous bodily harm. It also ordered him to pay ₦1 million in compensation to the victim.
In a further move aimed at strengthening deterrence, the court directed that the convict’s name be entered into the state’s Sexual Offenders Register under its naming-and-shaming policy.
The verdict has been described as a strong affirmation of justice and a warning to offenders.
Reacting to the judgment, Jigawa State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Bello AbdulKadir Fanini, commended the court, describing the ruling as a victory for justice and due process.
Fanini noted that the case, which dates back to early 2025, was promptly handled by the state government under Governor Umar Namadi, leading to the swift prosecution of the suspect.
He added that the victim received medical attention and psychological support to aid recovery from the trauma of the incident.
According to him, the government also facilitated improved living conditions for the victim’s family through support measures implemented in collaboration with the First Lady of Nigeria, Oluremi Tinubu, and the First Lady of Jigawa State.
The case has drawn praise from observers, who say the ruling underscores the judiciary’s commitment to protecting vulnerable citizens and ensuring that perpetrators of sexual violence face the full weight of the law.
It also highlights the state’s growing emphasis on accountability, victim support, and deterrence in handling sexual offences, reinforcing a broader national push against gender-based violence.
Jigawa Court Hands Rapist Life Sentence, Orders ₦1m Compensation
