April 9, 2026
By Editor
The Jigawa State Ministry of Justice has made significant progress in combating sexual violence, as a High Court No. 6 in Birnin-Kudu sentenced Abba Umar to life imprisonment for the sexual assault of nine-year-old Khadija Isah from Galamawa in Dutse Local Government Area.
This announcement was confirmed by the Jigawa State Commissioner for Justice and Attorney General, Barrister Bello Abdulkadir Fanini, following the judgment delivered by Honourable Justice Musa Ubale of the High Court No. 6 in Birnin Kudu.
The case, which surfaced in early 2025, saw the Jigawa State Government, led by Governor Umar Namadi, take prompt action to support the victim and her family. Khadija, who suffered severe physical and mental trauma, received comprehensive medical care and rehabilitation. Additionally, the government facilitated the relocation of her family to a newly furnished three-bedroom house in Dutse, funded by Senator Remi Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Hajiya Hadiza Umar Namadi, First Lady of Jigawa State.
In his ruling, Justice Musa Ubale found Abba Umar guilty of both rape and causing grievous bodily harm. He was sentenced to life imprisonment, an additional seven years, and ordered to pay a compensation of One Million Naira to Khadija. The court also mandated the Ministry of Justice to add Umar’s name to the state’s Sexual Offenders Register.
The Commissioner emphasized that the Jigawa State Government remains committed to protecting the dignity and rights of its citizens, reaffirming its 12-Point Agenda to uphold justice and safety within the community.
