Kano Magistrate Court, Jurisdiction over offences and consecutive sentences

Practice questions covering the grades, jurisdictions, and sentencing rules of Magistrate Courts in Kano, Lagos, and under the ACJA.

Which sections of the ACJL Kano provide for the existence of the Magistrate Court in Kano state?

Sections 6 and 8 of the ACJL Kano.

What is the maximum sentence and fine for a Chief Magistrate Grade 1 in Kano?

14 years and/or 300,000 Naira.

What is the maximum sentence and fine for a Chief Magistrate Grade 2 in Kano?

12 years and/or 200,000 Naira.

What is the maximum sentence and fine for a Senior Magistrate Grade 1 in Kano?

10 years and/or 100,000 Naira.

What is the maximum sentence and fine for a Senior Magistrate Grade 2 in Kano?

8 years and/or 70,000 Naira.

What is the maximum sentence and fine for a Magistrate Grade 1 in Kano?

5 years and/or 50,000 Naira.

What is the maximum sentence and fine for a Magistrate Grade 2 in Kano?

3 years and/or 50,000 Naira.

Which section of the ACJL Kano provides jurisdiction over Penal Code offenses?

Section 16(1) of the ACJL Kano.

Which section of the ACJL Kano provides jurisdiction over non penal code offenses?

Section 17(1) of the ACJL Kano.

Under Section 20 of the ACJL Kano, how can the jurisdiction of a Magistrate Court be increased?

By the House of Assembly on the recommendation of the Chief Judge.

In the North, what is the limit for consecutive sentences when a defendant is sentenced for more than one offense?

The aggregate term shall not exceed twice the maximum punishment which the court can ordinarily impose (Section 23 ACJL Kano).

Under ACJA Section 419(2), what is the limit for consecutive sentences?

It shall not exceed four years of the limit of jurisdiction.

What is the maximum punishment limit for all sentences in Lagos, regardless of circumstances?

14 years.

What occurs when a Magistrate imposes a punishment that exceeds its defined powers?

The excess is deemed abandoned.

Under Section 24 of the Court Procedure Act, how are sentences served if the Magistrate does not specify otherwise?

Sentences shall run consecutively except where the Magistrate directs that the sentence should run concurrently.

According to Section 419 of the ACJA, from what date does a sentence of imprisonment take effect?

The date it is imposed.