Jigawa Brothers Allegedly Kill Neighbor Over Witchcraft Allegations

In response to the incident, Jigawa State Police Command emphasized the importance of public awareness on such matters and assured that measures are being taken to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

Malam-Madori, Jigawa State – In a tragic incident, two brothers have been arrested in Kashin Dila Fulani village, Malam-Madori Local Government Area of Jigawa State, for allegedly killing their female neighbor, whom they accused of witchcraft.

The incident has left residents of the community in shock and grief.

According to police reports, the suspects—identified as Husaini Ali, 45, and his younger brother, Ya’u Ali, 20—allegedly conspired to attack their neighbor, 55-year-old Hauwa Yusai, whom they believed was practicing witchcraft. The two reportedly assaulted Yusai with sticks and knives, resulting in fatal injuries.

Jigawa State Police Command spokesperson, DSP Lawan Shiisu Adam, confirmed the incident in a telephone interview. He stated that on October 16, 2024, at approximately 1:30 a.m., the Malam-Madori Division received a distress call reporting the assault on Yusai. Police officers responded promptly and transported her to Hadejia General Hospital, where she was pronounced dead.

DSP Lawan disclosed that the motive behind the attack appears to be rooted in superstition and misinformation. During the investigation, both suspects reportedly confessed to the crime, claiming they believed their neighbor was a witch.

The suspects are now in police custody and have been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Dutse for further investigation. The Jigawa State Police Command has assured the public of its commitment to equity and justice, stating that the suspects will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.

This incident has sparked renewed concern over witchcraft-related violence and vigilantism in the region. The police urged citizens to report any suspicious activities to authorities and warned against taking the law into their own hands.

In response to the incident, Jigawa State Police Command emphasized the importance of public awareness on such matters and assured that measures are being taken to prevent similar occurrences in the future.