Bauchi Chief Judge Decries Legal Challenges of Witchcraft Cases, Reviews Awaiting Trial Inmates
By Mohammed Kawu, Bauchi
Bauchi State Chief Judge, Justice Rabi Talatu Umar, has raised concerns over the legal complexities surrounding witchcraft accusations, describing them as a persistent challenge in legal jurisprudence.
Speaking during a two-day quarterly review of awaiting trial cases at Jama’are Maximum Correctional Centre, Justice Umar noted the difficulty in proving witchcraft allegations, emphasizing that such cases often lack tangible evidence unless the accused confesses voluntarily.
"If you are not a witch, you cannot know who is a witch. It is an issue that could hardly be established unless the witch confesses to being one," she remarked.
Caution Against Excessive Compensation on Convicts
During the review exercise, Justice Rabi warned judges and magistrates against imposing exorbitant compensation fees on convicts, especially in cases where the ruling includes an option of fine.
She expressed concern that such heavy compensations often prolong convicts' stay in correctional centers, as they are unable to pay.
"Any judge who imposes outrageous compensation on convicts will be made to pay or settle it," she cautioned.
She further explained that demanding N100,000 to N300,000 from convicts could force them back into crime, urging judges to exercise fairness and mercy in their rulings.
"Where do you expect such an accused or convict to get that amount of money? Unless you want him to go back to the same crime after leaving prison to meet the court's demand."
She urged judicial officers to strike a balance between justice and compassion, considering that some convicts already face lengthy prison terms and should not be overburdened with excessive fines.
18 Awaiting Trial Inmates Released
As part of her review, Justice Umar
She explained that many of the released inmates had spent between three to five years in custody without trial, with some having lost their case files, making it impossible to continue their legal process.
"You have stayed long here without being charged or taken to court. Even if convicted, your sentence would not surpass the time already spent in custody."
Justice Umar urged them to see their release as an opportunity for a fresh start, advising them to learn new skills and engage in productive activities for self-reliance.
The released inmates, aged between 60 and 75 years, included one individual who had spent five years and four months in custody without any trace of his case file.
Commendation for Judges and Magistrates
Despite her observations, the Chief Judge commended the judiciary for its dedication to upholding justice.
"You are doing very well, and I am proud of you," she told judicial officers.
The review exercise, conducted under the Administration of Justice Committee, included the State Controller of Custodial Centres, the State Grand Khadi, the Commissioner of Police, the Director of Public Prosecution, and the Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association, Bauchi Chapter.
Justice Umar reaffirmed her commitment to ensuring speedy dispensation of justice, reducing overcrowding in correctional facilities, and upholding the rights of detainees awaiting trial.
This latest intervention highlights Bauchi State's efforts in justice sector reforms, particularly in addressing delays in trial processes and improving prison decongestion.
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