The Upper Shari’a Court in Kano, presided over by Ibrahim Sarki Yola, has delivered a landmark ruling exonerating Auwal Danladi Sankara, the Commissioner of Special Duties in Jigawa State, from allegations of adultery. This case, which garnered widespread attention across Jigawa State, was initiated by Nasiru Buba, who accused Sankara of engaging in an illicit affair with his wife, Tasleem Baba Nabegu.
In his ruling, Justice Sarki Yola stressed the importance of thorough investigations in sensitive cases, particularly those involving prominent individuals. He urged law enforcement agencies and regulatory bodies like the Hisbah Commission to exercise caution in handling such allegations to avoid unjustly tarnishing reputations. Citing findings from the office of the Assistant Inspector General of Police, the judge stated that there was no evidence to support the claims against Sankara. The investigation, he noted, found no proof of an illicit relationship between Sankara and Nabegu.
The case took a decisive turn when the complainant, Nasiru Buba, and his legal representatives failed to appear in court to contest the police findings. Consequently, the judge struck out the case, emphasizing that the absence of the complainant left the court with no option but to dismiss the matter.
Sankara's legal representative, Barrister Sadam Suleiman, expressed satisfaction with the outcome, reaffirming his client's innocence. He lauded the court for delivering a fair judgment that vindicated Sankara.
Meanwhile, Rabiu Shu’aibu, counsel for Tasleem Baba Nabegu, hinted at the possibility of pursuing a defamation case against Nasiru Buba for what he described as baseless accusations that have tarnished his client's reputation. Shu’aibu indicated that discussions with Nabegu would determine the next steps in seeking redress.
This ruling marks the end of a highly publicized case, underscoring the critical role of evidence and due process in the administration of justice. The decision has been widely viewed as a victory for fairness and transparency in legal proceedings, particularly in cases that attract significant public interest.
