The ancient city of Kano was thrown into deep shock and mourning on Saturday following the brutal killing of a housewife and three of her children in the Dorayi Chiranci area of the metropolis. In a further tragic twist, the woman’s infant was reportedly thrown alive into an open well within their family compound.
The disturbing discovery has left residents of the area in fear and disbelief, as the attackers are yet to be identified and the motive for the crime remains unclear.
According to local residents, the lifeless bodies of the woman and three of her children were found inside their home in Dorayi Chiranci, a densely populated neighbourhood in Kano. The fourth child, an infant, was later discovered inside a well located within the same compound.
Community members said the attackers allegedly killed the victims before dumping the baby into the well. It was not immediately clear whether the infant survived, as officials had yet to release full details at the time of reporting.
The incident has sparked outrage and sorrow across the community, with many residents describing it as one of the most horrifying crimes ever witnessed in the area.
“This is something we have never seen before,” said a resident who lives close to the family. “We woke up to cries and confusion. When we heard what happened, people could not believe it.”
Another resident said the entire neighbourhood was gripped by fear after the news spread. “People are scared. Parents are holding their children closer. No one understands why someone would do this,” he said.
The exact time the attack took place is still unknown. Residents said they only became aware of the tragedy when neighbours noticed unusual silence from the household and later raised an alarm. By the time help arrived, it was already too late for the victims.
The Kano State Police Command has confirmed that it is aware of the incident and has launched a full investigation. Police officers were seen at the scene cordoning off the area and gathering evidence, while detectives began questioning residents to piece together what happened.
Although the police are yet to release an official statement giving full details, sources said efforts are ongoing to identify the attackers and establish the motive behind the killings.
The Dorayi Chiranci community, known for its close-knit nature, has been left shaken by the tragedy. Many residents gathered in small groups, discussing the incident in hushed tones, while others stayed indoors out of fear.
“There is tension everywhere,” a local trader said. “People are afraid to sleep. Some families are keeping watch at night. Everyone is asking the same question: who did this and why?”
Community leaders have called for calm while urging security agencies to act swiftly. They appealed to residents to cooperate with the police by providing any useful information that could help in the investigation.
Religious leaders in the area also condemned the act, describing it as evil and against all moral and religious values. They urged residents to pray for the victims and for peace to return to the community.
“This kind of violence has no place in our society,” one cleric said. “Taking innocent lives, especially children, is a grave sin. We pray that justice will be served.”
The tragic incident has renewed calls for improved security in Kano and other parts of the country. While Kano is often seen as one of the more peaceful states in northern Nigeria, recent years have seen rising concerns over violent crimes, including robbery and targeted attacks.
Residents say the presence of security patrols in Dorayi Chiranci has been minimal, especially at night. Many believe increased patrols and community policing could help prevent such incidents in the future.
“We need more police presence,” a youth leader in the area said. “If criminals know that security is tight, they will think twice before doing something like this.”
Across Kano, news of the killings spread quickly, drawing reactions from civil society groups and concerned citizens. Many took to social media to express anger, sadness, and sympathy for the victims’ family.
Women’s rights groups also spoke out, calling for justice and stronger protection for women and children. They described the incident as a reminder of the vulnerability of families to violent crimes.
“This is a painful reminder that women and children are often the most affected by violence,” a statement from a local advocacy group said. “Authorities must do more to protect vulnerable members of society.”
The killings also raise questions about safety within residential areas and the need for stronger neighbour-to-neighbour vigilance. Some residents admitted that people are becoming more isolated and less aware of what is happening around them.
“In the past, neighbours looked out for each other,” an elderly resident said. “Now, everyone minds their own business. Maybe if we paid more attention, we could prevent some things.”
As investigations continue, the police have urged members of the public not to spread rumours or unverified information that could cause panic or hinder the work of law enforcement. They assured residents that those responsible would be brought to justice.
For now, Dorayi Chiranci remains under a cloud of grief and fear. Families are mourning the loss of innocent lives, while children are being kept close indoors. The once-busy neighbourhood has grown unusually quiet, reflecting the shock felt by all.
The tragedy serves as a painful reminder of the importance of security, community cooperation, and swift justice. As Kano mourns, residents hope that answers will soon emerge and that such a horrific act will never happen again.