Families of victims killed in a violent attack on a wedding convoy from Basawa, Sabon Gari, Kaduna, in Mangu, Plateau State, have expressed anger after a court released 20 suspects on bail.
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The attack, which occurred on June 12, claimed the lives of 13 people, including men, women, and children, while they were traveling to a wedding in Qua’an Pan. Reports said the vehicle carrying the victims was set ablaze during the incident.
The Plateau State High Court, presided over by Judge Nafisa Lawal Musa, granted bail following arguments from defense lawyers who claimed the state’s Attorney General had cleared the suspects of wrongdoing.
The victims’ families described the decision as shocking. Maryam Usman, widow of one of the deceased drivers, said she is now left to care for her children alone and questioned how those accused of such a grave crime could be allowed freedom.
They urged Governor Uba Sani and Northern leaders to intervene and ensure that justice is served. The Kaduna State government also expressed concern, stating it was not informed about the court proceedings and reaffirmed its commitment to pursue justice for the victims.
Legal analysts noted that granting bail in murder cases is unusual and typically occurs only under exceptional circumstances.
