In a landmark judgment on Wednesday, July 31, 2025, the Kwara State High Court sitting in Ilorin sentenced one Ibrahim Buhari to death by hanging for the murder of a final-year student of Kwara State University (KWASU), Malete.
Justice Ibrahim Yusuf, who presided over the case, ruled that the prosecution had proven its case beyond reasonable doubt, thereby sealing the fate of the accused after months of legal proceedings. The tragic incident had sparked outrage across the state and ignited widespread calls for justice and campus safety reforms.
The Crime That Shocked the Nation
The deceased, identified as Miss Rofiat Ayomide Abiola, was a final-year student of the Department of Mass Communication at KWASU. According to the case file and police investigation, she was lured by the convict, Ibrahim Buhari, under the pretense of a friendly meeting before being brutally murdered.
The court heard how Buhari, after committing the crime, attempted to cover his tracks by disposing of her body in a shallow grave, which was later discovered by security operatives following weeks of investigation.
According to Channels Television, the prosecution, led by Barrister Abdulmumini Adebimpe Jimoh, presented overwhelming evidence including Buhari’s confessional statement and forensic proof linking him directly to the crime.
Delivering the judgment, Justice Yusuf noted:
“The evidence before this Honourable Court is consistent, clear, and direct. The accused deserves the maximum punishment under the law to serve as a deterrent to others.”
This sentence aligns with Section 221 of the Penal Code Law applicable in Kwara State, which prescribes the death penalty for murder.
The courtroom was filled with emotions as the verdict was announced. Members of the victim’s family expressed relief that justice had finally been served after months of pain and uncertainty.
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Speaking to Vanguard News outside the courtroom, a family spokesperson stated,
“We thank God and the Nigerian judiciary. Rofiat’s soul can now rest in peace. We hope no other family goes through what we have faced.”
Student Communities React
The Students’ Union of KWASU issued a statement shortly after the ruling, applauding the court’s decision and urging authorities to strengthen security measures on and around university campuses.
“We mourn Rofiat’s death but also celebrate this judgment. Justice has been served, and we call for better protection of students nationwide,” the statement read.
The conviction and sentencing of Ibrahim Buhari for the murder of Rofiat Ayomide Abiola marks a critical moment for justice in Kwara State. It serves not only as a closure for the victim’s family but also as a stern warning to perpetrators of gender-based and campus-related violence.
As Nigeria continues to battle with rising insecurity, especially against young women, this ruling stands out as a powerful reminder that justice, though slow, is still achievable through due process.
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