[p]A Kano State magistrate court [/b]has issued a controversial order for the owner of a cockerel [/b]to kill the bird due to complaints from two neighbors about its noise levels in the community. The ruling came after the neighbors filed a complaint with the court about the cockerel's constant crowing, which they say has been disturbing their sleep and the peace of the neighborhood.
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[p]The defendant in the case, Isyaku Shu’aibu, had prayed the court to stay the judgement until Friday, April 7, 2023, as he bought the bird to celebrate Easter with. However, the court has ruled that Shu’aibu must cage and slaughter the bird on Friday or face a penalty from the court.
[/p][p]One of the complainants, Yusuf Muhammed, who resides in the Ja’en quarters of Kano’s metropolis, told the court that the cockerel's endless crowing was an infringement of his right to a restful sleep. The court ruling has sparked a debate on social media, with some people expressing their support for the decision, while others have criticized it as extreme.
[/p][p]It is unclear what penalty the court may impose on Shu’aibu if he fails to comply with the order to kill the cockerel. The controversy has also raised questions about noise pollution and animal rights in Nigeria, with some people calling for more humane solutions to deal with noise complaints in residential areas.
[/p][p]This ruling has also highlighted the need for a better understanding of the balance between the rights of individuals and their pets, and those of their neighbors. It remains to be seen whether there will be any further developments in this case or if it will serve as a precedent for future disputes over noise levels in Nigeria.
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