Death-Row Sheikh Abduljabar Moved to Abuja Custody

Sheikh Abduljabar Nasiru Kabara, sentenced to death for blasphemy against the Prophet Muhammad, has been transferred from Kano Correctional Centre to a federal custodial facility in Abuja.

The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), Kano State Command, confirmed the transfer on Wednesday, describing it as a routine administrative procedure carried out under established regulations.

Sheikh Abduljabar was sentenced to death by hanging on December 15, 2022, by a Kano Senior Magistrate, Justice Ibrahim Sarki Yola, after being found guilty of making blasphemous statements against the Prophet.

In a statement, the Kano NCoS Public Relations Officer, CSC Musbahu Lawan K/Nassarawa, explained that such transfers are part of the Nigerian Correctional Service Act, 2019, aimed at effective management and rehabilitation of inmates.

“The movement of inmates between custodial centres of different security classifications forms part of the Service’s constitutional mandate,” the statement read. “These decisions are based on security considerations, inmate classification, facility availability, and rehabilitation needs.”

Musbahu assured the public that Sheikh Abduljabar’s rights remain fully protected. He emphasized that the transfer does not affect the cleric’s legal status, rights of appeal, or access to legal representation.

“The public is hereby assured that the welfare and legal entitlements of Malam Abduljabar remain fully protected under the law,” he said.

The NCoS PRO reiterated the Service’s commitment to safe custody, rehabilitation, and reformation of inmates, stressing that the transfer aligns with operational guidelines and the broader objectives of public safety and state security.