KANO — The Kano State Government has taken over the prosecution of suspects arrested over the killing of Fatima Abubakar, a housewife, and her six children in Dorayi Chiranchi Quarters of Kano metropolis, in a move officials say is aimed at fast-tracking justice and ensuring due process.
The Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Abdulkarim Kabiru Maude (SAN), said the decision followed a directive from Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, describing the attack as a “heinous crime” and a grave affront to humanity and the rule of law. He said the Ministry of Justice would pursue the matter to ensure “justice is not only done but seen to be done,” while maintaining accountability and transparency throughout the proceedings.
Police have confirmed the arrest of three suspects, including Umar Auwalu, described by investigators as a nephew of the deceased, as well as Isyaku Yakubu (also known as “Chebe”) and Yakubu Abdulaziz (“Wawo”). The arrests followed intelligence-led operations conducted between the night of January 17 and the early hours of January 18, according to police statements carried by multiple outlets.
The Kano State Police Command said items recovered during the operation included blood-stained clothing, mobile phones believed to belong to the victims, and weapons allegedly linked to the attack, adding that investigations remain ongoing.
At the federal level, President Bola Tinubu has ordered a full investigation into the killings, commended the police for the swift arrests, and directed security agencies to ensure diligent prosecution of the suspects.
In a significant development that has intensified public attention, the parents of the principal suspect have also called for a speedy trial. Speaking to journalists, the suspect’s father, Malam Auwalu Abubakar, publicly distanced himself from his son, urged authorities to expose any accomplices, and appealed for expedited legal proceedings to prevent retaliatory violence or vigilante action.
The case has sparked widespread outrage in Kano, with residents and civic voices demanding accountability and stronger deterrence against violent crime. State authorities said further updates would be provided as the investigation and prosecution progress.
