By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
The Kaduna State Government has defended the death sentence passed on Victor Solomon, popularly known as Zidane, describing the judicial process as lawful, transparent, and based strictly on evidence. This comes amid widespread reactions on social media following the judgment delivered on January 6, 2026.
Speaking on the matter, the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. James Kanyip, said claims circulating online about contradictions in the case were false and misleading. He explained that Victor Solomon was tried in two separate criminal cases before two different High Courts, involving distinct offences and victims.According to Kanyip, there was no inconsistency in the court decisions. He noted that Solomon was acquitted in one case in 2024 but lawfully convicted in another case in 2026, based on the strength of evidence presented before the court.“
The first case, Charge No. KDH/KAD/73C/2020, bordered on criminal conspiracy and attempted culpable homicide. It ended with Solomon’s discharge and acquittal on May 21, 2024,” Kanyip said. He added that the second case, Charge No. KDH/KAD/78C/2020, involved more serious offences, including criminal conspiracy, grievous harm without provocation, and culpable homicide punishable with death.“
The trial in the second case was concluded in October 2025, and judgment was delivered on January 6, 2026, resulting in a conviction and sentence of death by hanging,” the Attorney-General explained. Kanyip stressed that the conviction was neither arbitrary nor politically motivated. He said it followed due process, a full trial, and careful judicial evaluation of facts and evidence. He also emphasized that the defendant retains the constitutional right to appeal up to the Supreme Court.Meanwhile, Victor Solomon’s counsel, Barrister Mark Jacob, has confirmed plans to challenge the judgment. Speaking with journalists in Kaduna, he said arrangements had been completed to file an appeal.“We are filing the appeal next week,” Jacob stated, adding that the legal team would pursue all available legal remedies on behalf of their client.
Reacting to growing public commentary, the Commissioner for Information, Malam Ahmed Maiyaki, warned that misinformation surrounding sensitive judicial matters could threaten public order. He cautioned residents against spreading unverified claims online.“ The deliberate spread of half-truths and false narratives about court judgments is dangerous. It risks inflaming passions and creating unnecessary tension. Kaduna residents must verify information before sharing it,” Maiyaki said.
The Kaduna State Government reaffirmed its commitment to the rule of law under the administration of Governor Uba Sani. Officials assured residents that justice in the state would continue to be pursued with fairness, transparency, and without prejudice.The government urged the public to allow the legal process to take its course, noting that the appellate courts remain the appropriate forum for addressing grievances arising from judicial decisions.
