The Kebbi State Police Command has apprehended Sule Gurmu, accused of killing his 25-year-old wife, Umaima Maidawa, in a tragic domestic violence incident that has left the Bayawa community in mourning.
The fatal attack occurred on January 13, 2026, during a domestic dispute at their residence in Bayawa, Augie Local Government Area. Gurmu reportedly struck Umaima with the wooden handle of a hoe, and she died shortly after the assault. Police launched a swift investigation following her death.
Gurmu fled Bayawa in the days after the killing but was tracked and arrested on Saturday in Katami town, Silame Local Government Area of Sokoto State. The operation was a joint effort by the Nigeria Police Force and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), prompted by a directive from the Chairman of Augie Local Government, Yahaya Augie, who ordered security agencies to ensure the suspect’s immediate arrest.
Augie visited the crime scene and supervised the transfer of the victim’s body to Argungu General Hospital for autopsy. He strongly condemned the killing, vowing that his administration would not tolerate domestic violence or criminality in the local government area.
He hailed the efforts of security personnel for their professionalism, assuring residents that Gurmu will face the full weight of the law. Augie also condoled the family of the deceased and reaffirmed his commitment to safeguarding lives and property in Augie Local Government.
Residents of Bayawa have expressed deep grief and disbelief over the tragedy, demanding justice and calling for stronger community sensitisation against domestic abuse.
The spokesperson of the Kebbi State Police Command, SP Bashir Usman, confirmed the arrest, stating that the suspect will be arraigned in court in due course.
The incident has renewed calls for greater awareness and action against domestic violence in rural Nigerian communities.
