An upper Shariah court in Kano has sentenced Shafiu Abubakar to death by hanging for setting ablaze worshippers at a mosque in Gadan Village of Gezawa local government area of state.

The incident happened when Muslim faithfuls were performing early morning prayers on May 15, 2024.

About 11 people died immediately and the death toll rose after others died later while receiving treatment at the Murtala Muhammed Specialist Hospital.

Abubakar was arraigned in court, on Monday, May 26, and the presiding judge, Halhatu Huza’i Zakariya, found him guilty on all the four-count charge filed against him.

The charges are culpable homicide, attempt to commit homicide, causing grievous injury and mischief by fire, contrary to the provisions of sections 143,148 and 370 of Shari’a legal code of Kano State 2000.

The judge sentenced the defendant to death by hanging for murder and 100 strokes of cane for attempted murder.

He also ordered the defendant to pay a fine of N1,500 for causing grievous hurt and 50 strokes of cane for mischief by fire.

The court also ordered the forfeiture of his Motorcycle to Kano State government the proceeds of which should be used to repair the damaged mosque.