By Umar Faruk
Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State, Nigeria
October 27, 2025(Series News)
A mild drama unfolded at the Kebbi State High Court II, Birnin Kebbi, when a police investigation officer (IPO) admitted to having short-term memory loss during cross-examination. The case involves one Hussaini Bagudu, who is standing trial for attempted armed robbery and causing grievous hurt, punishable under sections 285, 284 sub-2B, and 286 of the Kebbi State Panel Code Law 2021.
The trial was presided over by Honourable Justice Nusirat Ibrahim Umar. During the proceedings, the prosecution counsel, Barrister Marry Antak, called Sgt. Balarabe Muhammad, the IPO, to testify as a witness. Before the IPO took the stand, the prosecution counsel laid the foundation inviting the court to invoke section 39 sub-1 of the Evidence Act, as the complainant was unable to appear in court.
The IPO testified and was cross-examined by the defence counsel, Barrister Nura Bello. During the cross-examination, the IPO admitted that he could not recall certain details related to the statement he obtained from the complainant. When asked if he recorded the complainant's statement alone, Muhammad responded, "Can't recall." Pressed further by the defence counsel, he said, "I am the one who obtained the statement, but you know people have short and long-term memory of thinking." He later added, "That's why I can't recall whether it was only me and him when I recorded the complainant's statement."
Following his testimony, the prosecution closed its case. The defence counsel then applied for an adjournment to enable the defendant to open his defence. Hon. Justice Nusirat Ibrahim Umar granted the application and adjourned the matter until November 5, 2025, for continuation of hearing.
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