The Chief Judge of Bauchi State, Justice Rabi Talatu Umar, has advised judicial officers to refrain from handling cases related to witchcraft, emphasizing that such allegations are difficult to prove and often lack concrete evidence.
Speaking during a two-day review of awaiting trial cases at the Jama’are Maximum Correctional Centre, Justice Umar underscored the challenge of prosecuting witchcraft-related cases, noting that convictions in such matters largely rely on confessions rather than tangible proof.
She cautioned that unfounded accusations could damage the integrity of the justice system and lead to wrongful prosecutions.
Justice Umar also criticized the imposition of excessive fines in cases where fines serve as alternatives to imprisonment.
She condemned the practice of levying fines ranging from N100,000 to N300,000, arguing that such financial burdens could drive convicts into reoffending as they struggle to pay.
“Imposing such heavy compensation is unreasonable and may drive convicts back into crime. Judges must ensure that fines are proportional to the convict’s circumstances and that justice is tempered with mercy,” she stated.
As part of the justice review exercise, Justice Umar facilitated the release of 18 awaiting trial inmates, some of whom had been detained for over five years without trial—longer than the sentences they might have served if convicted.
The released inmates included seven granted bail from Jama’are Maximum Correctional Centre, seven from Bauchi Custodial Centre, three from Ningi Correctional Centre, and one from Misau Correctional Centre.
Expressing concern over prolonged detentions without formal charges, Justice Umar urged the released individuals to adopt better behavior and self-reliance skills. She reaffirmed her dedication to ensuring fair and speedy justice delivery and called on judicial officers to prioritize human rights and due process in handling cases.
