A 67-year-old Lebanese national, Zuhier R.. Akar, was sentenced to 14 years imprisonment by the Federal High Court sitting in Kano for sexually exploiting two teenage girls. The court’s decision came after a thorough investigation and a series of testimonies that detailed Akar’s manipulative tactics in luring the victims.
The prosecution presented clear evidence of Akar’s predatory behaviour, which not only devastated the lives of the young girls but also highlighted the urgent need for stronger protections against such heinous acts.
During the trial, the judge emphasised the need for a firm stance against sexual exploitation and affirmed that justice must prevail to deter similar offences in the future. Akar’s sentencing is a stark reminder to locals and foreigners that such criminal behaviour will not be tolerated.
In addition to the prison sentence, the court mandated Akar to pay restitution to the victims, ensuring they received counselling and recovery support. Community leaders have praised this verdict, expressing hope that it will encourage more victims to come forward and seek justice, as well as strengthen efforts to combat human trafficking and exploitation in the region.
Justice S. M. Shu’aibu delivered the judgement and held that the prosecution had proven its case beyond reasonable doubt.
The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) Kano Command arraigned Akar of Gidan Wanka, Unity Road, Fagge Local Government Area, Kano, with a two-count charge on trafficking and sexual exploitation.
The prosecution counsel and Kano Zonal Commander NAPTIP, Mr Abdullahi Babale, told the court that the Department of State Security Service (DSS) Kano Command reported the matter to the agency on September 5, 2024.
Babale then stated that the defendant committed the offence on September 4, at about 10:30 p.m., at his house situated at Gidan Wanka, Unity Road, Kano.
He disclosed that “the defendant procured the 14 and 15-year-old girls at the Civic Centre Road near Suya Spot, took them to his house, and sexually exploited them.
Sadden and pathetic, “A video of the defendant having sexual misconduct with the victims was posted on social media,” Babale said.
Then, the prosecution presented four exhibits, including the defendant’s confession and the victims’ testimony, to the court to prove its case.
However, the Lebanese pleaded guilty to the charge. He added, “The offence contravenes the provisions of Section 16(1) of the Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Enforcement and Administration Act, 2015, and is punishable under Section 26(1) of TIP ACT 2015.
However, the defence counsel, Mr R A Kasali, pleaded for leniency on behalf of Akar.
Lebanese
