By Our Correspondent
Justice Zuwaira Yusuf of the Kano State High Court has ordered the referral of Hafsat Suraj, also known as “chuchu,” to a psychiatric doctor at Kurmawa Correctional Centre for a mental health assessment.
During the arraignment on Thursday, Suraj remained silent despite the charge being read to her four times and being asked six times if she understood the murder charge against her.
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The prosecution counsel, Aisha Mahmoud, requested that Suraj be referred to a public psychiatric doctor to assess her mental health and determine if she is fit to stand trial.
Mahmoud explained, “The defendant’s silence in response to the charge can be attributed to malice or a suspected unsound mind. If it is out of malice, the court should record a plea of not guilty. If it appears to be due to a suspected unsound mind, it is the duty of the court to refer the defendant to a psychiatry hospital.”
The request made by the Director of Kano State Public Prosecutor, Aisha Mahmoud, was granted by Justice Zuwaira.
Additionally, the defense counsel for the three other defendants, who were alleged to have concealed material facts to protect the offender, pleaded not guilty.
The defense counsel, Barrister Rabiu Shuaibu, requested that the prosecution provide necessary documents pertaining to the case.
Read Also: Nafiu’s Death: Arraignment of Defendants Faces Delay As Defence counsel Seek Adjournment
Both the defense counsel, Haruna Magashi and Rabiu Shuaibu, also applied for bail for the defendants, citing provisions in the Nigerian constitution and the Kano State Administration of Criminal Justice Law.
However, the prosecuting counsel, Mahmoud, objected to the bail application.
Justice Zuwaira adjourned the case and informed the parties involved that the date for the next hearing will be communicated to them by the court registry.
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It was previously reported by Justice Watch News that Suraj allegedly stabbed Nafiu to death on 20th December 2023.
