In a landmark case in Kano State, a 47-year-old Chinese national, Geng Quandong, has been handed a death sentence by hanging for the murder of his Nigerian girlfriend, Ummukulsum Buhari.
The sentencing comes after Quandong faced charges of culpable homicide by the state government following the tragic demise of Ms. Buhari, aged 23, at Janbalu quarters in September 2022. The altercation leading to her death reportedly arose from her refusal to marry Quandong, allegedly after exploiting him.
After a rigorous trial, the Kano State High Court, presided over by Judge Sanusi Ado-Ma’aji, found Quandong guilty of the killing and sentenced him to death by hanging. Judge Ado-Ma’aji underscored the prosecution’s success in proving the case beyond reasonable doubt, citing inconsistencies in Quandong’s testimony.
Despite the gravity of the verdict, Judge Ado-Ma’aji extended a ray of hope for clemency, recommending that the Kano State Governor consider mercy on behalf of the convicted individual.
The prosecution counsel, Attorney-General of Kano State, Haruna Dederi, meticulously detailed the events leading to the tragic incident, wherein Quandong allegedly stabbed Ms. Buhari with a knife at her residence, resulting in her demise.
During the trial, the defense, led by Muhummad Dan’azumi, presented Quandong’s testimony, asserting his actions as self-defense, citing an altercation where Ms. Buhari purportedly assaulted him. Dan’azumi implored the court to consider the defendant for the prerogative of mercy under section 313 of ACJL.
In his defense, Quandong expressed remorse, contending that the stabbing was not intentional but a desperate act to defend himself. He pleaded for leniency from the court in its sentencing.
Following the verdict, the victim’s mother, Fatima Zubairu, expressed satisfaction with the court’s decision, speaking to journalists and highlighting a semblance of closure for the grieving family.
The case has drawn significant attention due to its international implications and underscores the importance of justice in cases of violence against women.
