Kebbi High Court Adjourns Trial of Nurse Accused in Death of Two Minors at Zuru Hospital
The High Court of Justice, Kebbi State, sitting in the Birnin Kebbi Judicial Division, on Monday adjourned the criminal trial of Nurse Hannatu James, who faces charges over the alleged death of two minors at Martha Bamaiyi General Hospital, Zuru.
Presiding judge Justice Nusirat Ibrahim Umar adjourned the matter to July 13, 2026, citing the absence of the defendant’s lead counsel, who was reported ill.
James is standing trial on a one‑count charge of “death caused in the act of committing an offence” under Section 196 of the Kebbi State Penal Code Law, 2021. She has pleaded not guilty.
According to the prosecution, James allegedly caused the death of seven‑year‑old Zulaihat Sale and three‑year‑old Mufida Sale on March 18, 2026, after administering quinine injection intravenously instead of through proper medical infusion. The children reportedly lost consciousness and died shortly afterwards.
At the resumed hearing, the Solicitor General and Permanent Secretary of the Kebbi State Ministry of Justice, Aishatu Abbas, appeared for the prosecution alongside other state counsel. Defence representatives requested adjournment due to the indisposition of the lead counsel.
While the prosecution did not oppose the adjournment, it urged the defence to ensure readiness at the next sitting, noting that witnesses had travelled from Zuru to testify. Justice Umar granted the application but advised the defence to prepare adequately, stressing that any available counsel from the chambers could step in if necessary.
The court also directed its registry to convey apologies to the witnesses, clarifying that the adjournment was solely due to counsel’s illness.
The matter has now been adjourned to July 13, 2026, for continuation of trial.
