The Kebbi State Police Command has arrested a 30-year-old man, Suleman Mamuda, for the alleged murder of his wife, Umaima Maidawa, aged 25, in Bayawa village, Augie Local Government Area of the state. The incident has shocked residents of the quiet rural community and renewed public concern over cases of domestic violence in Nigeria.
The arrest was confirmed in a statement issued on Friday in Birnin Kebbi by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bashir Usman. According to the police, the incident happened on Monday at about 6:30 a.m.
SP Usman said initial investigations showed that the suspect allegedly attacked his wife during a domestic dispute and struck her with the wooden handle of a hoe. The blow was said to have caused serious injuries that led to her death.
“The Kebbi State Police Command has arrested one Suleman Mamuda, aged 30, for allegedly killing his wife, Umaima Maidawa, aged 25, by hitting her with a wooden handle of a hoe,” the statement said.
After the incident, the suspect reportedly fled the scene, leaving the victim behind. Community members who later discovered what had happened raised an alarm. Sadly, Umaima was confirmed dead before help could arrive.
The police said the suspect went into hiding after the alleged killing, prompting a search by security operatives. Through information provided by residents of the area, officers were able to track him down and make an arrest.
Usman said the cooperation of community members played a major role in the success of the operation.
“The suspect fled the scene after the incident but was later tracked and arrested following police investigations and credible information from members of the community,” he said.
Following the arrest, the Commissioner of Police in Kebbi State, CP Umar Mohammed-Hadejia, ordered that the case be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID).
According to the police, the SCID will handle a detailed and discreet investigation into the matter. The outcome of the investigation will determine whether the suspect will be charged to court for prosecution.
“The Commissioner of Police has directed that the case be transferred to the SCID for a thorough investigation and possible prosecution,” the statement added.
The police spokesperson also called on members of the public to always report crimes and suspicious activities promptly. He said timely information from the public helps security agencies respond quickly and prevent further loss of lives.
The killing of Umaima Maidawa has brought attention once again to the issue of domestic violence, which remains a serious problem across many parts of the country. Cases of violence between spouses are often reported late, and in some situations, they end in tragedy.
Domestic violence includes physical abuse, emotional abuse, and other forms of harmful behaviour within the home. Experts say many victims suffer in silence due to fear, cultural pressure, or lack of support.
In rural communities, such as Bayawa village, access to help is often limited. Many people rely on family members, elders, or religious leaders to resolve disputes, and police intervention usually comes only when matters have gone too far.
Residents of Bayawa village described the incident as painful and disturbing. Some community members said the couple was known in the area, making the incident even more shocking.
“This is a sad situation. We did not expect something like this in our village,” said a resident who did not want his name mentioned.
Another resident said there was a need for families and community leaders to take early warning signs seriously.
“When couples have problems, we should not ignore it. People should talk to them early before it becomes violent,” the resident said.
Over the years, human rights groups and women’s organisations have continued to call for stronger action against domestic violence. They have urged victims to speak out and seek help before abuse escalates.
Nigeria has laws aimed at protecting women and children from abuse, including the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act, which criminalises domestic violence. However, awareness and enforcement of these laws remain weak in many areas.
They also stress the importance of holding suspects accountable through the legal system to discourage others from engaging in similar acts.
The Kebbi State Police Command said it remains committed to protecting lives and property across the state. The command assured the public that justice would be pursued in line with the law.
SP Usman urged residents not to take the law into their own hands but to always report incidents to the nearest police station.
“We urge members of the public to promptly report incidents and continue to support law enforcement efforts aimed at maintaining peace and security across the state,” he said.
He added that early reporting of domestic disputes could help security agencies intervene and prevent situations from turning deadly.
As investigations continue, the suspect remains in police custody. The police said further updates would be provided as the case progresses.
For many residents of Bayawa village, the incident serves as a painful reminder of the consequences of unresolved domestic conflict. Community leaders and residents have called for prayers for the deceased and her family.