Witchcraft Cases Surge in Bauchi, Chief Judge Expresses Concern

Bauchi State Chief Judge, Rabi Umar, has raised concerns over the increasing number of cases related to witchcraft, describing it as a challenge to legal jurisprudence.

Speaking during a review of awaiting trial cases at the Jama’are Maximum Correctional Centre, the chief judge emphasized the difficulties in proving witchcraft-related allegations in court.

“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 be one,” she said.

Umar also cautioned judicial officers against imposing excessive compensation on convicts, particularly in cases where an option of a fine exists. She warned that heavy financial penalties often prolong inmates’ stay in correctional facilities, making reintegration into society more challenging.

“Any judge who imposes unreasonable compensation on a convict will be required to pay or settle it themselves,” she warned.

Criticizing the trend of hefty compensation amounts ranging from N100,000 to N300,000, she argued that such practices could push convicts further into criminal activities.

“I am troubled by the trend of excessive compensation imposed by judges. Where do you expect a convict to get such large sums? If they cannot pay, they may resort to crime again upon release just to meet the court’s demands,” she said.

Umar further stressed that requiring convicts to repay the full value of stolen or lost property, especially after years in prison, is often unfair.

“When sentencing a convict, consider the punishment they have already served. If they have been imprisoned for two or three years, requiring them to repay the full value of stolen items could be unfair. The other party may have to forfeit something as well,” she added.

As part of the review exercise, Umar ordered the release of 18 inmates awaiting trial from Jama’are Maximum Correctional Centre, seven from the Bauchi Custodial Centre, three from the Ningi Correctional Centre, and one from Misau Correctional Centre.

Addressing those released, she said: “You have been in custody for too long without being charged or taken to court. Even if convicted, your sentence would not have exceeded the time already spent here. That is why this committee has decided to release you unconditionally.”

The review exercise was conducted under the administration of justice committee, which includes key legal and security officials such as 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 in Bauchi.

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