Suspect allegedly confessed as police recover weapons, link crime to family dispute; governor, Atiku, Barau demand swift justice.

Residents of Dorayi Chiranchi Quarters in Kano metropolis are still reeling from a shocking attack that claimed the lives of a 35-year-old woman, Fatima Abubakar, and her six children.

The victims—Maimuna (17), Aisha (16), Bashir (13), Abubakar (10), Faruk (7), and Abdussalam (18 months)—were killed when assailants reportedly invaded their home in Dorayi Gidan Kwari late Friday night.

Kano State Police have arrested three suspects in connection with the killings, including Umar Auwalu, 23, a nephew of the deceased woman. Police say Umar has made a confession and was identified as the leader of the group.

Neighbours described the incident as brazen and deeply disturbing. According to residents, the attackers locked the house from the outside before carrying out the assault and attempted to destroy evidence by setting parts of the house ablaze. Some neighbours said the suspects even attended the victims’ funeral, deceiving mourners before they were eventually apprehended.

Residents also disclosed that Fatima had reached out to family members shortly before the attack, seeking help. Her mobile phones were later allegedly found in the possession of one of the suspects. While there are claims the killings were linked to a family inheritance dispute, this has not been officially confirmed.

One resident involved in the arrest of a suspect further alleged that Umar had previously been linked to similar killings in another part of Kano, claims police say are now part of an expanded investigation.

The husband of the deceased, Haruna Bashir, said the tragedy has shattered his life. Speaking through tears, he said he was at the market when he received the devastating call. Medical personnel later confirmed that all seven victims were dead after being taken to Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital.

“As a Muslim, I believe Allah gives and takes,” he said. “This pain will never leave me, but I pray we are reunited in paradise.”

Relatives said Bashir has remained inconsolable since the incident.

Police spokesperson Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa said the suspects—Umar Auwalu of Sabuwar Gandu, Isyaku Yakubu (40) of Sagagi, and Yakubu Abdulaziz (21) of Sabon Gida Sharada—were arrested during an intelligence-led operation between the night of January 17 and the early hours of January 18, 2026.

Items recovered include bloodstained clothing, mobile phones belonging to the victims, and weapons believed to have been used in the attack. Police said investigations are ongoing and the suspects will be charged to court upon conclusion.

Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf described the killings as “barbaric and intolerable,” vowing that justice would be served. He directed security agencies to intensify patrols and urged residents to cooperate with law enforcement.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar also condemned the attack, questioning the effectiveness of security responses and calling for decisive action to protect lives.

Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin praised the swift arrests but demanded a thorough investigation and speedy trial. “These killers must face the full weight of the law,” he said, while offering prayers for the victims and strength for the bereaved family.

Authorities have reassured Kano residents of their commitment to safeguarding lives and ensuring that those responsible for the atrocity are held fully accountable.

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