Sanusi Appeals to Gov Yusuf to Sign Death Warrants of Convicted Murderers

Introduction

In a stern call for justice and the restoration of deterrence against violent crime, His Highness, Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II of Kano, has publicly appealed to Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf to authorize the execution of convicted murderers. This appeal follows the gruesome murder of a housewife, Fatima Abubakar, and her six children in the Kumbotso Local Government Area of Kano State. The Emir’s statement highlights a critical debate within the Nigerian legal and social landscape regarding the enforcement of capital punishment, the concept of executive clemency, and the state’s responsibility to protect lives and property.

This article explores the details of the Emir’s appeal, the government’s response, the legal implications of signing death warrants, and the societal factors contributing to violent crimes in the region.

Key Points

Background

The call for the enforcement of capital punishment in Kano State arises from a surge in violent crimes that have shaken the local community. The specific catalyst for Emir Sanusi’s statement was the brutal assassination of Fatima Abubakar and her six children. The crime, described as “grotesque” and “barbaric,” occurred in the Chiranci quarters of the Kumbotso Local Government Area.

Historically, the application of the death penalty in Nigeria has been complex. While the penal code allows for capital punishment for offenses such as murder, the actual execution of sentences often faces procedural delays. A significant hurdle is the requirement for a “death warrant” to be signed by the executive governor of the state. Without this signature, convicted murderers remain on death row indefinitely, a situation Emir Sanusi described as a failure of the justice system.

Analysis

The Deterrence Doctrine

Emir Sanusi’s argument is rooted in the classical theory of deterrence. He posits that for the justice system to be effective, the punishment must be swift, certain, and severe. His logic follows that if a potential criminal knows that murder results in the forfeiture of their own life—and that this sentence will be carried out—they are less likely to commit the crime. He explicitly stated, “If someone knows that if he kills another, he could be killed, it would serve as a deterrent.”

Clemency vs. Justice

The Emir drew a sharp distinction between different types of crimes and the application of mercy. He argued that while the state may exercise prerogative of mercy for crimes like theft or financial malfeasance, murder is different. Sanusi emphasized that the right to pardon a murderer belongs only to the Creator or the victim’s family, not the state. He reasoned that a murderer shows no pity to their victim, so the state should not extend pity to the perpetrator of a heinous act.

Systemic Failures

Sanusi highlighted a systemic issue where convicted murderers are sentenced to death by hanging, yet the sentence is never executed because the governor has not signed the warrant. This creates a disconnect between judicial rulings and executive action. The Emir views this inaction as a “sad reflection of society’s failure to enforce capital punishment and justice,” which inadvertently encourages a culture of impunity.

Practical Advice

For Law Enforcement and the Judiciary

To address the Emir’s concerns and improve public safety, the following practical steps are recommended for the Kano State justice system:

• Expedite Trials: Ensure that murder cases are prioritized in high courts to reduce the backlog and provide closure for victims’ families.
• Strengthen Evidence Gathering: Utilize modern forensic techniques to ensure that evidence collected by the police is irrefutable in court, minimizing the chances of appeals overturning convictions.
• Streamline Warrant Processes: Establish a clear, non-partisan protocol for the governor’s office to review and sign death warrants following the exhaustion of all judicial appeals.

For Community Safety and Prevention

The Kano State Government identified drug abuse and unemployment as key drivers of crime. Practical advice for community leaders and residents includes:

• Community Policing: Active participation in the Neighborhood Watch programs established by the state government to monitor suspicious activities.
• Substance Abuse Education: Parents and schools should collaborate with the NDLEA (National Drug Law Enforcement Agency) to implement early intervention programs for youths.
• Economic Empowerment: Community leaders should advocate for vocational training programs to reduce idleness and provide alternative livelihoods for at-risk youth.

FAQ

Conclusion

Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II’s appeal to Governor Abba Yusuf underscores a desperate need for justice in the face of rising violent crime. By calling for the signing of death warrants, the traditional ruler is challenging the state to align its executive actions with judicial rulings to restore the rule of law and deter future offenders. While the government has pledged to enhance security and tackle root causes like drug abuse, the debate on capital punishment and its enforcement remains a pivotal issue in Kano’s legal and social framework. The outcome of this appeal will likely set a precedent for how the state balances retributive justice with the broader goal of societal reform.