Kogi Court Sentences Man To D3ath By Hanging For K!lling His Friend

A Kogi State High Court sitting in Okene has sentenced Abdulmutalib Abduljabar to death by hanging for the killing of his friend, Momohjimoh Abduljafar.

Justice A.S. Hussein delivered the judgment on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, after finding the defendant guilty of culpable homicide punishable by death under Section 221 of the Kogi State Penal Code, 2019, as amended.

The judge held that the prosecution had presented sufficient evidence to establish the defendant’s guilt beyond reasonable doubt, concluding that he intentionally stabbed his friend to death.

According to the prosecution, represented by counsel Esther J. John, the incident occurred on June 6, 2025, at GKAS Hotel in Okene, where Abduljabar allegedly stabbed Abduljafar with a sharp object, resulting in his death.

In delivering the verdict, Justice Hussein rejected the arguments presented by the defence counsel, Baba Shehu Ahmad, before imposing the death sentence.

Reacting to the judgment, the prosecuting counsel expressed satisfaction with the court’s decision, stating that justice had been served. She also commended the presiding judge for the ruling.

However, the defence counsel indicated that he intended to appeal the judgment after reviewing the certified true copy of the court’s decision.

The family of the deceased also welcomed the verdict, expressing satisfaction with the outcome of the case.

The judgment marks a significant development in the murder case, although the defence has indicated plans to challenge the decision through the appellate process.