Couple Convicted After Son's Death from 'Breathtaking' Neglect in Off-Grid Lifestyle
A couple who renounced mainstream society and created their own “kingdom” have been convicted of causing or allowing the death of their three-year-old son, whose body was discovered buried in a garden. Tai and Naiyahmi Yasharahyalah were found guilty after a harrowing trial exposed the extent of neglect that led to the death of their son, Abiyah Yasharahyalah, from malnutrition and untreated illness.
The Tragic Death of Abiyah
Abiyah died during the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. He had suffered from a respiratory illness exacerbated by severe malnutrition, rickets, and anaemia caused by the family’s strict unsupplemented vegan diet. His parents, instead of seeking medical assistance, attempted to treat him with garlic and ginger.
For eight days after his death, the couple kept Abiyah’s body in their bed, performing what they described as an “eight-day ritual” in hopes he would “come back.” They then buried him in a shallow grave in the garden of their home in Handsworth, Birmingham.
A post-mortem examination found that Abiyah’s malnutrition and lack of medical care were significant contributing factors to his death. He also had six untreated fractures, believed to have occurred weeks before his passing, as well as severe dental decay.
The “Kingdom” of Yasharahyalah
Tai, a former medical genetics graduate, and Naiyahmi, a former shop worker, shunned conventional society, claiming to have renounced British citizenship and adopting a quasi-religious belief system they invented. They referred to themselves as the leaders of the "Kingdom of Yasharahyalah," which incorporated aspects of Igbo culture and Tai’s personal ideologies, including polygamy and self-governed laws.
The couple lived off the grid, relying on the generosity of others, and moved frequently, residing in places like a shipping container and later a caravan near Yeovil, Somerset.
Arrest and Trial
The couple was arrested in December 2022 in Somerset, where they were living in a caravan. Police discovered Abiyah’s remains five days later after questioning the couple about his whereabouts.
During the trial, prosecutors presented evidence of the couple’s neglect and their refusal to seek medical care for their son despite clear signs of illness and malnourishment. The jury heard that Abiyah’s suffering would have been obvious, with his severe pain from dental abscesses and fractures left untreated.
The couple claimed their actions were rooted in their belief in natural remedies and their faith in holistic healing. However, prosecutors argued that their arrogance and disregard for basic medical care contributed directly to Abiyah’s death.
Verdict and Sentencing
The jury unanimously convicted the couple of causing or allowing Abiyah’s death, perverting the course of justice, and neglect. They were remanded in custody and are scheduled to be sentenced next Thursday.
Detective Inspector Joe Davenport, who led the investigation, described Tai as “an arrogant fantasist” and Naiyahmi as “incredibly weak-minded,” prioritizing her loyalty to Tai over the welfare of her child.
A Call for Accountability
Abiyah’s death has prompted a child safeguarding review, examining how the authorities handled the family’s case and missed opportunities to intervene.
“This case is a stark reminder of the dangers of extremism, whether ideological or lifestyle-based, when it comes at the expense of a child’s wellbeing,” said Davenport.
The court’s verdict brings justice for Abiyah, whose short life was marked by neglect and suffering, and highlights the vital importance of safeguarding vulnerable children.