AISHA ABUBAKAR
Panic broke out at the Mayo-Inne Area Court in Adamawa State on August 31, 2026, after an 87-year-old man allegedly attacked the presiding judge, Judge Dauda Hamman, with a cutlass during a court proceeding.
The incident has raised concerns about courtroom security across the state.
According to court sources, the defendant, Dahiru Garba 87, became violent while his case was being heard before Judge Dauda Hamman.
Witnesses said Garba allegedly brought out a cutlass and attacked the judge, causing him serious injuries to his hand. Court officials and Police officers immediately intervened and arrested Garba at the scene. Judge Hamman was rushed to hospital for treatment.
The case was first handled at Mayo-Inne Police Station before it was transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department, SCID, Yola for further investigation due to the gravity of the offence.
The cutlass allegedly used in the attack was recovered as an exhibit.
On Monday, Dahiru Garba was arraigned before a Magistrate Court in Yola.
The prosecutor told the court that Garba was charged with causing grievous hurt contrary to Section 241 of the Penal Code Law of Adamawa State.
When the charge was read, Garba pleaded guilty and told the court that “the devil” was responsible for his actions.
The magistrate ordered that the case file be forwarded to the Directorate of Public Prosecutions for legal advice. Garba was remanded pending the DPP’s advice.
Section 241 of the Penal Code provides that anyone who voluntarily causes grievous hurt shall be liable to imprisonment for a term of up to 7 years, or fine, or both. Grievous hurt includes severing a limb or joint.
Legal experts say because the victim is a judicial officer, the DPP may also consider additional charges relating to assault on a public officer.
The Adamawa State Judiciary and the Nigerian Bar Association, NBA, Adamawa Branch have condemned the attack and called for improved security in all courts.
The injured judge, Judge Dauda Hamman*, is said to be responding to treatment.
The matter was adjourned to await the DPP’s advice.