A tragic incident unfolded in Kano on Sunday, March 30, as a vigilante in the entourage of Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II was stabbed to death following the Eid prayers. The Kano State Police Command has since arrested a 20-year-old suspect, Usman Sagiru, in connection with the fatal attack, which took place as worshippers were dispersing from the Eid praying ground.
The police confirmed that the attack occurred around 12:40 pm when Surajo Rabiu, a member of the local vigilante group from Sabon Titi Jaba Quarters, was stabbed by Sagiru and several other suspects, who are still at large. Rabiu later succumbed to his injuries. Another member of the vigilante group, Aminu Suleman from Kofar Mata Quarters, was also attacked and sustained injuries. He is currently receiving medical treatment at Murtala Mohammed Specialist Hospital in Kano.
The violence erupted as the atmosphere around the Eid prayers was one of celebration and togetherness. The Eid prayers, a religious event marking the end of Ramadan, are typically an occasion for peace, unity, and joy among Muslims. However, this peaceful gathering was disrupted by the fatal attack, which has left residents of Kano in shock and disbelief.
Surajo Rabiu’s death marks a painful and tragic event for his family, friends, and the larger community. Vigilantes, like Rabiu, play a significant role in maintaining security in the state, especially in the face of rising crime rates. These community members are often tasked with supporting law enforcement in keeping the peace, making their violent deaths particularly heartbreaking.
Aminu Suleman, the other victim of the attack, was fortunate to survive the stabbing but is now recovering from the injuries he sustained. His condition remains stable, and he is being treated at one of the major hospitals in Kano.
Following the deadly attack, the Kano State Police swiftly responded to the situation. They arrested the primary suspect, Usman Sagiru, who is reportedly from Sharifai Quarters. Sagiru, who is 20 years old, has been taken into police custody for questioning, and investigations are underway. According to the police, Sagiru was one of the individuals responsible for the stabbing.
While Sagiru is in custody, other suspects connected to the attack are still on the run. The police have launched a manhunt to apprehend them and bring them to justice.
The Kano State Police Command has also invited Shamakin Kano, Alhaji Wada Isyaku, for questioning in relation to the incident. Authorities are trying to understand the motive behind the attack and whether it was connected to any broader conflict or dispute.
In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, the police have assured the public that they are taking the matter very seriously. “We have launched a full investigation into the attack and are working diligently to ensure that justice is served,” the statement said.
In response to the tragic event, the Kano State Police Command reiterated its position on maintaining public order, particularly concerning traditional celebrations such as Durbar festivals. Durbar is a traditional festival in Kano that often involves large crowds and displays of cultural pride, but it has also been a source of violence in the past. The police reminded the public that all forms of Durbar celebrations have been banned in the state, as part of measures to ensure the safety and security of citizens.
The police also reiterated their zero-tolerance policy toward thuggery, known locally as “Daba,” and other forms of public disturbance. Thuggery has been a persistent issue in Kano and other parts of Nigeria, often causing unrest and violence. The police have emphasized that anyone found violating these orders would face legal consequences.
“We urge the public to remain calm and cooperate with the police as we work to ensure peace and security in Kano State,” SP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa stated on behalf of the Commissioner of Police. The message serves as a reminder that public safety remains a priority for the authorities, and they are committed to investigating and addressing any disturbances that may arise in the state.
The attack on the vigilantes has brought to light ongoing security concerns in Kano. Vigilante groups, often working alongside the police, have become an essential part of community policing in the state. However, the increasing frequency of attacks on such groups raises questions about the safety of those who are supposed to help keep the peace.
The rise in criminal activities in the state, including attacks on security personnel, has made it clear that more efforts are needed to address the underlying causes of violence. These incidents also highlight the complex challenges faced by local law enforcement, who often have to navigate a delicate balance between maintaining order and preventing further violence.
Many Kano residents have expressed their concern over the security situation and have called on the authorities to take more stringent measures to protect both law enforcement officers and vigilante groups. The tragic death of Surajo Rabiu serves as a reminder of the dangerous work that these community security officers do and the risks they face every day.
The attack has sparked widespread outrage among Kano residents, many of whom are calling for justice for Surajo Rabiu and for all those involved in the attack to be swiftly apprehended and held accountable. The violent nature of the crime has also raised concerns about the rising levels of lawlessness in the region, especially following several high-profile attacks in the past year.
Residents have expressed their frustration over the lack of safety in the state, particularly during religious and public events that should be peaceful occasions. The Eid celebrations, in particular, are meant to be a time of joy and reflection, but this senseless act of violence has left many questioning the state of security in Kano.
