Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
The Kano State Government has arraigned a 35-year-old businessman, Ali Sulaiman Adam, popularly known as Gadon Ƙaya, before Kano State High Court No. 15 over the alleged murder of his wife, Maryam Nababa Badamasi, and the burning of the room where her body was found. The defendant, who resides in the Gadon Kaya community, was brought before Justice Sanusi Ado Ma'aji on Thursday, July 16, 2026, on a two-count charge bordering on culpable homicide and arson. According to the charge filed by the state, Adam allegedly killed his wife before setting the room where the incident occurred ablaze.
The couple had been married for barely two months before the tragic incident, which has since drawn public attention and renewed concerns over domestic violence in Kano State. When the charges were read to him in court, Adam pleaded not guilty to both counts.
The prosecution counsel, Barrister Lamido Abba Sorondinki, informed the court that the state was ready to prosecute the matter and requested an adjournment to enable it to present its witnesses. On his part, counsel to the defendant, Barrister A. A. Dabo, urged the court to uphold the bail earlier granted to his client by the Gezawa Division of the Kano State High Court. However, Justice Ma'aji declined to grant the request immediately, prompting the defence counsel to seek leave to file a fresh bail application.
The presiding judge subsequently adjourned the case until July 27, 2026, to hear the defendant's fresh bail application. Speaking to journalists after the court session, the prosecuting counsel said the prosecution had concluded preparations to present its witnesses when the trial resumes.
Under Nigeria's criminal justice system, a defendant charged with a criminal offence is presumed innocent until proven guilty by a court of law. Culpable homicide is among the most serious offences under Nigeria's criminal laws and carries severe penalties upon conviction. Similarly, arson, which involves deliberately setting property on fire, is treated as a serious criminal offence because it often endangers lives and destroys property. The trial is expected to focus on the evidence presented by both the prosecution and the defence, including witness testimonies and any forensic findings connected to the incident.
Domestic violence and family-related killings have continued to attract public concern across Nigeria in recent years. Civil society organisations and women's rights groups have repeatedly called for stronger measures to prevent domestic abuse and ensure that victims receive timely protection. The Federal Government and several state governments have introduced laws and policies aimed at addressing gender-based violence and improving support for victims. Many states, including Kano, have also established agencies and committees responsible for responding to cases involving domestic abuse, sexual violence and child protection.
The arraignment of Ali Sulaiman Adam marks the beginning of formal legal proceedings in a case that has attracted significant public attention in the state. The adjournment to July 27 will determine whether the defendant remains in custody or is released on bail pending trial.
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