The Jigawa State Police Command has arrested a newlywed woman over the alleged killing of her husband, who reportedly died after eating a meal prepared by her in Gauza village, Jahun Local Government Area of the state.
The incident, which has shocked residents of the quiet rural community, occurred on January 23, 2026, at about 5:00 p.m. According to police sources, the man took his lunch at home and suddenly became seriously ill shortly afterward.
Confirming the incident in a statement released to journalists in Dutse, the Jigawa State capital, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Shi’isu Adam, said the husband was rushed to a nearby hospital for urgent medical attention. However, doctors were unable to save him, and he was pronounced dead while receiving treatment.
The sudden death raised suspicion, prompting officers from the Jahun Police Division to begin an immediate investigation. Detectives moved quickly to gather information from family members and neighbors, focusing on events that led to the man’s illness and death.
According to SP Shi’isu Adam, the wife of the deceased was arrested as the principal suspect in the case. During questioning, the woman reportedly confessed to poisoning her husband’s food with rat poison.
“The suspect confessed during interrogation that she poisoned her husband’s food,” the police spokesperson stated. He added that the woman claimed she asked her cousin to buy the rat poison that was later used in the alleged act.
The police said the suspect told investigators that she was forced into the marriage by her parents. According to her statement, she did not agree to the marriage and felt trapped, a situation she claimed pushed her into committing the act.
The police have not released the names of the suspect or the deceased, as investigations are still ongoing. However, the case has generated strong reactions across Jigawa State, especially among residents of Jahun Local Government Area.
Community members described the incident as disturbing, noting that the couple had only been married for a short period. Some residents said they were unaware of any serious disagreement between the couple, while others claimed there were signs of tension shortly after the wedding.
Forced marriage remains a sensitive issue in some parts of northern Nigeria, despite growing awareness of individual rights and legal protections. In many rural communities, family pressure and cultural expectations still play a role in marriage decisions, sometimes leading to unhappy unions.
Human rights groups have repeatedly warned that forced marriages can lead to emotional distress, abuse, and, in extreme cases, violence. They often call on families to respect the wishes of their children and on authorities to enforce existing laws that protect individuals from forced unions.
In this case, the police highlighted that no personal or family issue justifies taking a life. SP Shi’isu Adam said the Jigawa State Commissioner of Police has ordered that the matter be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Dutse for a full and thorough investigation.
According to the PPRO, once investigations are completed, the suspect will be charged to court and prosecuted according to the law. He stressed that the police are committed to ensuring justice for the deceased and his family.
“The suspect is currently in police custody and will be charged to court after investigations are concluded,” SP Shi’isu Adam said.
The police command also used the opportunity to advise members of the public to remain calm and law-abiding. In the statement, the command urged people facing marital or family problems to seek lawful and peaceful means of resolving disputes.
The police warned against taking the law into one’s hands, noting that such actions often lead to irreversible consequences. According to the command, violence within families continues to be a serious concern and often leaves lasting damage to both families and communities.
In recent years, Jigawa State, like many other parts of the country, has recorded cases of domestic violence and family-related crimes. Law enforcement agencies and civil society groups have continued to call for early intervention, counseling, and dialogue to prevent such tragedies.
The case has also renewed calls for stronger community education on marriage, consent, and conflict resolution. Religious and traditional leaders are often encouraged to play active roles in counseling couples and families before and after marriage.
Residents of Gauza village described the incident as a painful lesson, especially for young couples and parents. Some community elders said more attention must be given to the emotional well-being of couples, particularly newlyweds adjusting to married life.
As the investigation continues, the Jigawa State Police Command has assured residents of the state that it remains committed to protecting lives and property. The command also reaffirmed its resolve to ensure that justice is served without fear or favor.
For now, the suspect remains in custody, while the family of the deceased prepares for burial and mourns their loss. The tragic incident serves as a reminder of the dangers of unresolved family pressure and the importance of peaceful solutions to personal challenges.
