Driver Who Attacked Policeman Faces Harsh Punishment – 15 Strokes Ordered

A Chief Magistrates’ Court in Kaduna has sentenced 36-year-old commercial driver, Mustapha Aminu, to 15 strokes of the cane for assaulting a police officer on duty. The incident occurred on January 29, when Aminu, a resident of Ungwan Sanusi, struck Sergeant Adamu Maigari on the head with a log of wood after being stopped for reckless driving. Aminu pleaded guilty to the charge.

Presiding Magistrate Ibrahim Emmanuel emphasized the severity of the offense, stating, “The punishment is to make you understand the gravity of the offence you committed. This will also serve as a warning to others who have the mind to commit such crimes.” He ordered a court official to administer the 15 lashes and cautioned Aminu to refrain from such actions in the future, urging him to focus on his profession to remain a valuable member of society.

Prosecutor Inspector Chidi Leo detailed that Aminu was driving recklessly when Sergeant Maigari attempted to stop him. In response, Aminu assaulted the officer with a wooden log, resulting in injuries. The offense contravenes Section 237 of the Penal Code of Kaduna State, 2017.

This case underscores the judiciary’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and protecting law enforcement officers from assaults. It also serves as a deterrent to individuals who might consider similar actions against officers performing their duties.

Assaults on police officers have been met with various legal consequences in Nigeria. For instance, in May 2023, a Dei-Dei Grade 1 Area Court in Abuja sentenced a commercial taxi driver, Bello Ibrahim, to 18 months imprisonment for inflicting injuries on a traffic officer. Ibrahim was charged with resisting arrest and causing grievous hurt, offenses that contravene Sections 245 and 311 of the Penal Code.

These judicial actions highlight the importance of respecting law enforcement officers and adhering to traffic regulations to maintain public order and safety.