A Kaduna high court in Nigeria has sentenced Victor Solomon, also known as Zidane, to death by hanging for murder, sparking concerns about the country’s justice system. Zidane was arrested in 2018 for defending his Adara community against Fulani terrorist attacks during the Elrufai administration.
The case has raised questions about the fairness of the judiciary, as Zidane was acquitted of the same charge by another state high court. Human rights advocates argue that the sentence is a miscarriage of justice, given the circumstances of the case. Zidane’s family and supporters are calling for a review of the sentence, citing concerns about the influence of external factors on the judiciary.
*The Case*
– Zidane was arrested and charged with murder in two different state high courts
– One court acquitted him, while the other sentenced him to death
– The Supreme Court upheld the death sentence, despite allegations of judicial bias
*Reactions*
– Human rights groups and the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) condemn the sentence as a miscarriage of justice
– Concerns raised about Nigeria’s justice system and the impact on vulnerable communities
– Zidane’s case highlights the challenges faced by those defending their communities against terrorist attacks.
Meanwhile, tensions are rising within Nigeria’s ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) as leaders demand the removal of Nyesom Wike as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The APC Leaders Forum and Tinubu/Shettima Solidarity Movement accuse Wike of insubordination, anti-party activities, and threats to national unity. Wike’s comments, including a warning that those meddling in Rivers affairs would “get their fingers burnt,” have sparked outrage and calls for his resignation.
