Kano State Police Command has launched a full investigation into a gruesome murder that occurred at Yusuf Garko Mosque in Maraba Quarters, Kano, on Monday. A man identified as Ladan Malam Zubairu was reportedly killed after his throat was slit by an unknown assailant while inside the mosque.
Eyewitnesses say the suspect attacked Malam Zubairu during early morning prayers, causing panic and fear among worshippers. According to residents, the community immediately reacted with anger, chasing the suspect and eventually lynching him on the spot. In the aftermath, the mob reportedly set fire to the suspect’s house, destroying property in the surrounding area.
The police confirmed the incident in a statement signed by the Public Relations Officer, CSP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa. “The command is pleased to report that normalcy has been restored in the area. Residents are urged to remain calm and cooperate with the investigation,” the statement said.
CSP Kiyawa also revealed the shocking detail that the victim’s throat was recovered from the suspect’s pocket. Both bodies—the victim and the suspected assailant—were taken to Mohammed Abdullahi Wase Teaching Hospital, Kano, and are awaiting autopsy. “The police investigation team has recovered the victim’s throat from the suspect’s pocket, and both bodies have been taken to Mohammed Abdullahi Wase Teaching Hospital Kano, all certified dead and awaiting autopsy,” he added.
The Commissioner of Police in Kano State, CP Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, has ordered a thorough investigation into the incident. He emphasized the need to ensure that all those responsible for the crime are brought to justice and called on members of the public to provide any information that could aid the investigation. “Residents are urged to help law enforcement agencies maintain peace while the investigation unfolds,” CSP Kiyawa said.
Places of worship, particularly mosques in northern Nigeria, are generally considered safe spaces for religious activities. However, incidents of violence, though rare, have occurred, often creating widespread fear and insecurity. Attacks inside mosques are particularly shocking to the community because they violate a sacred space where people gather for spiritual reflection and prayer.
Kano State, located in northern Nigeria, has a predominantly Muslim population, and mosques like Yusuf Garko Mosque play a central role in daily life. The early morning Asuba prayer is one of the five daily prayers observed by Muslims, making mosque gatherings during this time an integral part of community life. Attacks at such moments are deeply disturbing and can have long-term psychological impacts on the local population.
Eyewitnesses report that the attack on Malam Zubairu occurred suddenly and without warning. Some residents described hearing cries of panic and the chaos that ensued as people tried to flee the mosque. The immediate response of the local youth in chasing and killing the suspect reflects the community’s shock, anger, and frustration at the violent act.
The lynching of the suspect and the burning of his house have highlighted concerns over mob justice in Nigeria. While residents’ anger is understandable given the brutality of the crime, security experts caution that taking the law into one’s own hands can complicate investigations and increase insecurity. Authorities have urged calm and reassured residents that justice will be served through proper legal channels.
Maryam, a local resident, described the community’s fear: “Everyone was shocked and terrified. We did not expect such violence in a place where people come to pray. It is frightening that something like this could happen here.”
The police have appealed to residents to avoid further violence and to assist law enforcement agencies by providing any information that may help solve the case. CSP Kiyawa emphasized that all information provided by the public will be treated confidentially to ensure the safety of informants.
Kano State Police Command swiftly deployed officers to Maraba Quarters to restore order following the incident. Security personnel have been stationed in the area to prevent further unrest, and patrols are ongoing to maintain peace. Police officials have also begun gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and collecting statements to reconstruct the events that led to the killing.
The recovery of the victim’s throat from the suspect’s pocket is a critical piece of evidence for investigators. Authorities will likely conduct autopsies and forensic examinations to determine the exact circumstances of the murder and to identify any additional parties involved.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, assured the public that the investigation would be comprehensive. “Our aim is to bring justice to the victim and ensure that such incidents do not happen again. We call on all residents to remain calm and cooperate with our officers,” he said.
The incident highlights the importance of community engagement in maintaining security. Residents are encouraged to report suspicious activities and cooperate with law enforcement. Experts note that increasing awareness, surveillance, and rapid police response are critical measures for preventing attacks in public and religious spaces.
