By Kwara Legends
A recent report by National Pilot titled “Why Hafsoh May Not Get Deserved Justice if Abdulrahman is Convicted – Sources Say Only Kwara Governor Can Approve His Execution” has reignited concerns about the administration of justice in Kwara State. The case of Hafsoh Lawal, a final-year student of the Kwara State College of Education, who was allegedly murdered and dismembered by an Islamic cleric, Abdulrahman Bello, for ritual purposes, has sent shockwaves across the state. While the legal process is ongoing, the report suggests that even if Abdulrahman is convicted and sentenced to death, his execution would require the approval of the Kwara State Governor.
This revelation raises serious questions: How accessible is justice for ordinary citizens? Why are existing legal frameworks designed to accelerate justice failing to serve the people they were meant to protect?
Despite the heinous nature of his alleged crime and the overwhelming public outrage, Abdulrahman Bello’s demeanor in court suggests a disturbing level of confidence. His lack of visible remorse and apparent arrogance leave many wondering—what emboldens him?
Does he believe that the justice system will fail his victim? Is he relying on political connections or hidden influences to escape accountability? Does he think the law will bend in his favor? If justice were swift and certain, would he dare to behave in this manner?
The brazenness of his conduct only strengthens public suspicions that the legal system, rather than protecting the innocent, may be enabling the guilty.
The Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) was enacted at the federal level to ensure the speedy and efficient dispensation of justice. The 8th State House of Assembly, under the leadership of Rt. Hon. Ali Ahmad as Speaker, Kwara State domesticated this law as the Kwara State Administration of Criminal Justice Law (ACJL) to eliminate delays, prevent abuse of court processes, and ensure swift justice—especially for vulnerable citizens.
However, the Hafsoh Lawal case exposes a troubling reality: Has the ACJL become a mere paper tiger—strong on paper but powerless in practice?
If this law was designed to accelerate criminal proceedings, why does it appear ineffective in delivering swift justice? Why does Abdulrahman Bello’s fate hinge on gubernatorial discretion when the ACJL was supposed to remove such bureaucratic obstacles?
A core principle of the ACJL is to limit unnecessary delays in trials and sentencing. Yet, cases involving indigent victims continue to suffer prolonged adjournments, political interference, and selective enforcement.
The law, while progressive on paper, remains a luxury that benefits the privileged while ordinary citizens struggle for justice.
Would the legal process be this slow if the perpetrator were an ordinary citizen without religious or social influence? If Abdulrahman Bello is convicted but his execution is stalled due to gubernatorial discretion, it will reinforce the belief that justice is reserved for the powerful, while the weak must endure endless delays and bureaucratic obstacles.
Nigeria’s Constitution grants governors the authority to approve executions as a safeguard against arbitrary use of the death penalty. However, this power must not be a tool for delaying justice.
Governors in Nigeria have historically been reluctant to sign death warrants, often citing personal beliefs, pressure from human rights organizations, or political considerations. In cases like Hafsoh Lawal’s, where the crime is brutal and public sentiment is strong, failing to act decisively could be seen as shielding criminals rather than upholding justice.
If the governor refuses or delays execution after a lawful conviction, he must provide clear, legally justifiable reasons—not political excuses.
The Hafsoh Lawal case is more than just a murder trial—it is a test of Kwara State’s justice system and the effectiveness of the ACJL. If people perceive that justice is not only slow but also subject to political discretion, their trust in the judiciary will erode.
The government must demonstrate a firm commitment to justice by ensuring that due process is followed without undue bureaucratic obstacles or political interference.
If Abdulrahman Bello is found guilty and sentenced to death, the governor must act in the interest of justice by approving the execution without delay. Any hesitation will reinforce the perception that justice in Nigeria is a privilege, not a right.
For Hafsoh Lawal, her grieving family, and countless Nigerians who believe in the rule of law, this case must be handled with transparency, urgency, and fairness. Anything less would set a dangerous precedent—one that undermines public faith in the legal system and the principle of justice for all.
Signed:
Sa’ad Lukman
Kwara Legends
