A tragic and violent incident in Niger State has led to the death of Muhammad Ma’aba, who was brutally attacked by a group of men allegedly led by his lover’s ex-husband, Alhaji Yikangi. The gruesome act, which occurred on April 17, 2025, has left the local community shocked and brought attention to the deep-seated issues of jealousy and control that can erupt into violence.
Alhaji Yikangi, a resident of Yikangi Chikan village in the Gbako Local Government Area of Niger State, had divorced his wife, Fatima Suleiman, three times. Despite their history, he remained determined that she should not remarry. The situation escalated when Fatima found a new partner, Muhammad Ma’aba, from the nearby village of Fujeregi. This new relationship was the final straw for Yikangi, who, reportedly, could not stand the thought of his former wife moving on with another man.
Sources close to the incident reveal that Alhaji Yikangi was not content to merely let his ex-wife lead her life as she saw fit. His jealousy grew uncontrollable when he learned of Fatima’s new suitor. In an attempt to stop her from marrying Ma’aba, Yikangi allegedly took matters into his own hands. He gathered a group of individuals, and on the afternoon of April 17, they ambushed Ma’aba between the villages of Saganuwa and Fujeregi.
According to the Niger State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Wasiu Abiodun, the attack occurred around 2 pm, when a group led by Yikangi confronted Ma’aba. The victim was severely beaten, leaving him unconscious. Witnesses report that the attackers assaulted him with such violence that he fell into a coma.
“He was beaten into a coma over a misunderstanding involving one Fatima Suleiman of the same address,” SP Wasiu Abiodun confirmed in a statement. The victim, Ma’aba, was rushed to Lemu General Hospital, but tragically, he passed away before he could receive medical treatment. His death was confirmed by doctors at the hospital.
This violent act has sent shockwaves through the community, leaving local residents grappling with the horror of what was supposed to be a simple dispute escalating into a fatal confrontation. The motives behind Yikangi’s actions have sparked discussions about the emotional toll of jealousy and possessiveness, especially when it turns deadly.
The Niger State Police have launched an investigation into the incident, and they are actively pursuing the suspects involved in the attack. As of now, Alhaji Yikangi and the other members of the group who participated in the assault are still on the run.
“Efforts have been intensified to arrest the fleeing suspects,” SP Wasiu Abiodun added in his statement, acknowledging the gravity of the situation. The police have called on the public to assist in providing information that could lead to the arrest of the perpetrators, ensuring that justice is served for the victim and his family.
The incident has highlighted a troubling trend of domestic violence and jealousy-fueled crimes, raising concerns about the safety of individuals involved in complicated relationship dynamics. Many residents in Niger State have expressed their shock and outrage over the senseless violence, calling for stronger measures to prevent such acts in the future.
Muhammad Ma’aba, the victim of this brutal attack, was reportedly planning to marry Fatima Suleiman before his life was tragically cut short. His family and friends have expressed their grief over his death, describing him as a kind and hardworking individual who did not deserve such a violent end.
The victim’s death has left a dark shadow over the small community in Fujeregi, where he was known and loved. Ma’aba had reportedly been excited about his future with Fatima and was looking forward to building a life with her. However, his dreams were shattered by the violent actions of an angry and jealous ex-husband who could not accept her moving on.
The case of Alhaji Yikangi and Fatima Suleiman has drawn attention to the ongoing issue of domestic violence and possessiveness in relationships. Though this incident has brought the problem into the public eye, many believe it is part of a wider pattern of similar incidents happening across Nigeria.
Though it remains unclear whether Yikangi has a history of domestic violence, his extreme reaction to his ex-wife’s new relationship suggests a disturbing level of control and manipulation. Domestic abuse, both physical and emotional, often leaves deep scars on the victims, and in this case, it led to a tragic death.
The news of Ma’aba’s death has sparked outrage and sadness in the community. Local leaders have condemned the attack, expressing solidarity with the victim’s family and calling for justice. Many have pointed to the danger of unchecked jealousy and possessiveness in relationships, urging society to do more to address these issues before they spiral into violence.
“I am heartbroken by this incident. No one should have to die because of another person’s jealousy,” said a local resident in a statement. “We need to focus on teaching respect and emotional intelligence, especially in relationships. This kind of violence must stop.”
The incident has also shone a light on the importance of supporting people going through difficult relationships and ensuring that individuals are empowered to make their own choices without fear of retaliation. Support groups for victims of domestic violence are calling for stronger laws and measures to protect individuals in such situations.
Authorities are under pressure to act quickly and ensure that this case does not become another statistic in the growing problem of domestic violence and jealousy-driven crimes in Nigeria.
