A KATSINA State High Court has sentenced two men to death for their involvement in the brutal murder of former Katsina State Commissioner for Science and Technology, Rabe Nasir.
News Point Nigeria reports that the judgment was delivered by Justice I. I. Mashi of High Court 9, nearly three years after the chilling crime that shocked the state.
The two convicts, Shamsu Lawal, a former security guard, and Tasi’u Rabi’u, the deceased’s cook, were found guilty of premeditated murder and sentenced to death by hanging.
A third individual, Sani Sa’adu, also a former guard, was handed a five-year jail term for withholding crucial information related to the murder. Meanwhile, a young woman named Gift Bako was acquitted due to insufficient evidence connecting her to the crime.
According to police investigations and prosecution submissions, Rabe Nasir was killed on December 8, 2021, inside his private residence at Fatima Shema Housing Estate in Katsina.
The court established that the murder was carried out by members of his domestic staff, individuals he had trusted with access to his home and life.
Evidence presented in court revealed that the convicts had conspired to rob the late commissioner, but after failing in their attempt, they resorted to poisoning him.
Medical reports confirmed the presence of toxic substances in his system, leading to his death.
The State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) led the investigation, with testimony from pathologists and forensic experts confirming the cause of death.
The prosecution emphasized that the crime was not only heinous but an example of betrayal by trusted staff.
In a ruling that lasted several hours, Justice I. I. Mashi described the murder as a “cold-blooded and calculated act driven by greed,” stressing that the court was left with no choice but to apply the maximum penalty under the law.
“The facts before this court are clear. The actions of the convicts led directly to the untimely death of a public servant who had contributed significantly to the state and country,” the judge ruled.
Following the pronouncement, court security operatives swiftly took the convicts into custody, as they appeared visibly distressed.
There was a mix of emotions in the courtroom, relief and joy from those connected to the acquitted defendant, and tears and despair from the families of the convicted.
Speaking to reporters after the ruling, the defence counsel, Ahmad Kankia, while respecting the court’s decision, pleaded for leniency, arguing that the convicts had dependents and could still be reformed.
“We will consult with the families and consider whether an appeal is necessary. However, we appreciate that justice has followed due process,” Kankia stated.
On the other hand, the prosecution team expressed satisfaction with the verdict, saying it was a reflection of justice and a deterrent against similar crimes.
“Justice has finally been served. This ruling should send a message that crimes, especially those involving trust and betrayal, will not go unpunished,” said the lead state prosecutor.
The late Rabe Nasir was not just a commissioner but a seasoned public servant. He had served as a Member of the House of Representatives representing Mani/Bundawa Federal Constituency in 2003.
He was also a former officer of the Department of State Services (DSS) and a loyal member of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
At the time of his death, Nasir was serving in the cabinet of then, Governor Aminu Bello Masari as Commissioner for Science and Technology.
His untimely killing in 2021 sent shockwaves through Katsina State and the national security establishment, prompting calls for better protection of public servants and a full investigation, which culminated in the trial.
He was buried on Friday, December 10, 2021, at Gidan Dawa Cemetery in Katsina amid tears from family, colleagues, and supporters.
While the sentencing brings some level of closure to the family and friends of Rabe Nasir, legal experts note that the case underscores the urgent need for improved vetting, welfare, and monitoring of domestic staff, especially those working for public officials.
As the dust settles on this high-profile murder trial, the verdict stands as a solemn reminder: betrayal from within can be just as deadly and justice, though sometimes delayed, will eventually prevail.