The Sokoto State Police Command has arrested a 25-year-old man, Sufiyanu Aliyu, for allegedly stabbing his 15-year-old wife, Suwaiba Abubakar Bawa, to death after a violent argument in Gwanyal village, Tangaza Local Government Area.
The incident, which occurred around 7:30 p.m. on October 27, has thrown the quiet rural community into deep mourning.
According to a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ahmad Rufai, a Good Samaritan alerted the police when the domestic quarrel turned deadly.
“Officers rushed to the scene and found that the suspect had allegedly stabbed his wife to death with a knife,” Rufai said.
“The murder weapon was recovered as an exhibit, and the suspect was arrested immediately.”
Police said the victim’s body was taken to a nearby hospital, where doctors confirmed her death. The suspect, now in custody, has confessed to the crime, according to preliminary reports.
DSP Rufai confirmed that the case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for deeper investigation and eventual prosecution.
Reacting to the tragedy, the Commissioner of Police, Sokoto State Command, praised officers for their quick response and assured the public that justice will be served.
“The Command remains committed to ensuring that perpetrators of violent crimes face the full weight of the law,” he said.
“We urge residents to resolve domestic issues peacefully and report any suspicious activities promptly.”
The killing has reignited public outrage over the prevalence of child marriage and domestic violence in northern Nigeria. Rights activists are demanding stronger enforcement of child protection laws, especially in rural communities where cultural norms often silence victims.
Social commentators say the tragedy underscores the urgent need for awareness campaigns on gender-based violence and early marriage, which continue to claim young lives across northern states.
Women’s rights advocate Aisha Yahaya described the incident as “a heartbreaking example of how early marriage traps girls in cycles of violence.”
“At 15, Suwaiba should be in school, not in a grave,” Yahaya said.
“Until government enforces strict penalties for underage marriage, these deaths will continue.”
Police have yet to disclose the motive behind the killing, though sources say it stemmed from a domestic dispute between the couple.
Authorities confirmed that Sufiyanu Aliyu remains in detention while investigations continue.
The Sokoto Command also urged residents to report domestic violence cases to the nearest police station before they escalate into tragedy.
