Zaria Magistrate Court Grants Conditional Bail
A retired Upper Shari’a Court Judge, Mahmoud Shehu, was granted bail on Tuesday by a Magistrate Court sitting in Zaria, Kaduna State, over allegations of assaulting a blind housewife. The case has drawn public attention due to the severity of the allegations and the involvement of a former judicial officer.
Presided over by Senior Magistrate Ibrahim Adamu Salisu, the court set stringent bail conditions. Shehu was required to provide two sureties who are civil servants on Grade Level 10. Additionally, he must deposit a sum of ₦100,000 and ensure the sureties present their promotion letters, passport photographs, full residential addresses, and valid phone numbers. If the bail conditions are not met, Shehu will remain in custody at the correctional facility until the next court hearing, scheduled for February 11, 2025.
Allegations Against the Defendant
Shehu is facing charges related to the alleged assault, including forceful entry, use of force, and physical violence, in violation of Sections 327, 237, and 239 of the Kaduna State Penal Code Law, 2017. Prosecutor Adamu Abubakar told the court that the incident occurred on September 6, 2024.
According to the prosecution, Shehu allegedly locked the main gate of the victim’s home, entered her room uninvited, and physically assaulted her. The attack reportedly left the blind woman injured and in need of medical attention at the Primary Health Centre, Tudun Wada. Two other women who attempted to intervene were also allegedly assaulted by Shehu during the incident.
Defense and Denial
During the court proceedings, Shehu denied committing the offenses. His defense team argued that the charges were unfounded, although the court refrained from making any preliminary judgments at this stage. The allegations against Shehu remain under legal scrutiny, and further hearings will determine the outcome.
Case History and Reassignment
The case was initially filed on September 10, 2024, at the Magistrate Court in Tudun Wada, Zaria. However, due to multiple adjournments and delays, the presiding judge at the time, Senior Magistrate Lukman Sidi, recused himself from the matter. The case was subsequently transferred to the Chief Magistrate Court 1, Chediya, for reassignment.
Public Reaction and Concerns
The case has sparked significant interest and debate within the community, with advocacy groups expressing concern over violence against vulnerable individuals, particularly women and those with disabilities. Many have called for a thorough investigation and fair trial to ensure justice is served, irrespective of the defendant’s previous status as a judge.
Legal Implications
If found guilty, Shehu could face significant penalties under the Penal Code Law of Kaduna State, which aims to deter acts of violence and ensure accountability. The outcome of this case will likely set a precedent, especially given the high-profile nature of the accused.
Next Steps
The court has adjourned the matter to February 11, 2025, for further proceedings. Meanwhile, Shehu must meet the bail conditions to avoid remand. Advocacy groups and the general public continue to monitor the case closely, emphasizing the need for justice and the protection of vulnerable individuals in society.
