Sokoto High Court sentences man to 21 years for child rape

2026-02-26 - 19:08

...Sends Strong Warning Nationwide By Musa Ubandawaki, Sokoto In a landmark judgment reinforcing zero tolerance for sexual crimes against children, the Sokoto State High Court has sentenced Yasir Muhammad, 19, to 21 years imprisonment for raping a four-year-old girl. Delivering the verdict, Justice Amina Modi Yabo said the prosecution had proven its case beyond reasonable doubt, describing the offence as “grievous and profoundly reprehensible.” The court heard that on May 16, 2025, the victim, while on her way to school, was lured and sexually assaulted by Muhammad. The judge ruled that the testimonies of six witnesses presented by the prosecution were credible, direct, and corroborated by exhibits tendered in court. Justice Modi Yabo noted that the defence failed to discredit the witnesses or challenge the evidence, dismissing the convict’s denial as insubstantial against the overwhelming proof. Citing settled Supreme Court decisions, the judge emphasised that any penetration constitutes rape and that evidence of injury shortly after the assault strongly supports sexual assault claims. “The law does not demand anatomical devastation; it requires proof of intrusion. This position has been consistently affirmed by appellate courts and has hardened into settled law,” Justice Modi Yabo said. The judge further observed that the victim, being a minor, could not legally consent, and there was no lawful relationship to justify the act. She stressed that sexual violence against children is a grave violation of bodily integrity, dignity, and innocence, and that courts have a duty to protect vulnerable members of society. While considering the age of the offender, the court weighed factors including deterrence, public protection, and rehabilitation. Under Section 260 of the Sokoto State Penal Code Law, 2019, rape carries life imprisonment or a minimum of 21 years. In handing down the 21-year sentence, Justice Modi Yabo emphasized that the punishment serves as a deterrent, safeguards society, and sends a clear message that sexual offences against children will attract severe consequences. The ruling aligns with ongoing national efforts to combat sexual and gender-based violence in Nigeria, where courts are increasingly imposing strict penalties to protect vulnerable children and reinforce justice.