Three Suspects Face Fresh Charges Over Brutal Killing of Mother, Six Children

Three prime suspects linked to the killing of a 35-year-old housewife, Fatima Abubakar, and her six children in Dorayi Chiranchi Quarters have been slammed with fresh criminal charges before the High Court in Kano.

The suspects — Umar Auwalu (23), Isyaku Yakubu (40), and Yakubu Abdulaziz (21) — are facing an eight-count charge that includes conspiracy, criminal trespass, robbery, culpable homicide, rape, mischief by fire, possession of dangerous weapons, and inflicting injuries.

The defendants were initially standing trial before a Chief Magistrate’s Court after being arrested by the Kano State Police Command, which conducted investigations and filed the First Information Report (FIR).

At the resumed hearing on March 11, the Kano State Solicitor-General, Salisu Muhammad-Tahir, informed the court that the state government had reviewed the case file following the emergence of additional evidence against the suspects.

He disclosed that fresh charges had already been filed before High Court 11, presided over by Nasiru Saminu, in a bid to ensure justice for the seven victims.

According to the prosecution, the alleged offences violate several sections of the Penal Code, including Sections 97, 221, 283, 298, 319, 336, and 348.

The Solicitor-General also revealed that additional suspects had been identified in connection with the crime. However, the main defendants remain the three currently in custody, while two others — Sama’ila Garba and Umar Ali — are still at large.

The High Court has scheduled April 1, 2026, for the arraignment of the defendants. Meanwhile, Chief Magistrate Auwal Yusuf-Suleiman ordered that the suspects remain in a correctional facility and adjourned the case until April 8 for further mention.

The tragic incident occurred in January 2026 when the attackers allegedly stormed the residence of the deceased in Dorayi Chiranchi, killing the mother and her six children, including an infant whose body was later found in a well. One of the main suspects, Umar Auwalu, is reportedly related to the victim.

Amid growing public outrage, the Kano State Government has taken over the prosecution of the case.

The state Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Abdulkarim Kabiru Maude, announced the decision during a press briefing, stating that the move was directed by Governor Abba Yusuf.

Maude described the killings as a “senseless and inhumane act” that has plunged the state into mourning. He assured residents that the government would ensure a transparent judicial process and that justice would be served.

He also praised the swift intervention of the police, noting that their efforts led to the arrest of suspects connected to the crime.

The Attorney-General further urged residents of Kano to remain calm and law-abiding while the legal process runs its course, assuring the public that the government is committed to accountability, transparency, and due process in handling the case.