Controversial Bail: Former Shari’a Judge Faces Accusation in Assault of Kaduna Housewife
A retired Upper Shari’a Court Judge, Mahmoud Shehu, has been granted bail by a Magistrate Court in Zaria, Kaduna State, following allegations of assaulting a visually impaired housewife.
Presiding Senior Magistrate Ibrahim Adamu Salisu set the bail conditions, requiring Shehu to provide two sureties who are civil servants on grade level 10. The sureties must submit their promotion letters, passport photographs, residential addresses, and phone numbers.
Additionally, Shehu is to deposit ₦100,000. Failure to meet these conditions will result in his remand at the correctional facility until the next hearing, scheduled for February 11, 2025.
The charges against Shehu include criminal trespass, assault, and use of force, allegedly violating Sections 327, 237, and 239 of the Penal Code Law of Kaduna State, 2017. The incident reportedly occurred on September 6, 2024, when Shehu allegedly forced his way into the home of the blind housewife, locked the main gate, and physically assaulted her.
Two women who attempted to intervene were also allegedly attacked during the incident. The victim sustained injuries and was treated at the PHC Tudun Wada.
Shehu has denied the charges. The case was initially filed at the Magistrate Court Tudun Wada, Zaria, on September 10, 2024, but faced multiple delays. Following the withdrawal of Senior Magistrate Lukman Sidi due to undisclosed reasons, the matter was transferred to Chief Magistrate Court 1, Chediya, for reassignment.