The Bauchi State Government has revealed alarming crime statistics for the 2024–2025 legal year, reporting 75 homicide cases, 28 kidnapping cases, and 86 rape cases across the state.
The state Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Hassan El-Yakub, disclosed the figures on Tuesday during the opening of the 2025–2026 legal year in Bauchi.
El-Yakub explained that the Ministry received 91 robbery cases between January and now, an increase from 83 cases recorded the previous year. He added that homicide cases remained high, with 75 officially documented.
He said,
“From January to date, we received a total of 91 robbery cases as against last year’s 83. We also recorded 75 homicide cases, 86 rape cases, and 28 kidnapping cases.
In total, the Ministry handled 592 criminal cases this year.”
Out of the 592 cases received, 97 have already been concluded, 15 discharged through legal advice, while 454 remain pending in various courts.
Efforts to Speed Up Prosecution
El-Yakub noted that the Ministry has introduced new measures to accelerate the prosecution process in line with the state’s Administration of Criminal Justice Law (ACJL). These include timelines for filing charges and stricter adherence to procedural steps to avoid unnecessary delays.
He further stated that Governor Bala Mohammed approved N7.8 million for the purchase of law textbooks and practice materials to strengthen the ministry’s library. Monthly allocations for clearing judgment debts owed by the state have also been approved.
Chief Judge Laments Poor Investigations
The state Chief Judge, Justice Rabi Umar, expressed concern over cases being filed without proper preliminary investigations, a trend she described as a major contributor to trial delays.
“This backward approach significantly delays criminal trials and undermines justice delivery. It is unacceptable that in 2025 we still begin investigations after arraignment,” she said.
Justice Umar also announced the establishment of a committee to review and upgrade the state’s ACJL to meet modern standards.
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She warned lawyers against violating the official dress code, insisting that those who fail to comply will not be allowed to appear in court.
Government Reaffirms Support
In his remarks, Governor Bala Mohammed—represented by his deputy, Auwal Jatau—said the three arms of government in the state continue to work harmoniously and assured that his administration remains committed to supporting the judiciary and legislature for optimal performance.
