President Bola Tinubu has directed a full investigation into the brutal murder of a mother and her six children in Kano State, condemning the attack as barbaric and vowing justice for the victims. This tragic incident has drawn nationwide attention and strong responses from both federal and state authorities.

In a statement issued on Monday, President Tinubu expressed deep sorrow over the killings and offered condolences to the bereaved family. He described the attack on 35-year-old Fatima Abubakar and her six children in Dorayi Chiranchi Quarters as “barbaric” and unacceptable, emphasizing that such acts of violence will not be tolerated in Nigeria.

Tinubu also commended the swift arrest of three principal suspects by security authorities and urged that they be diligently prosecuted. The President assured Nigerians that the Federal Government remains committed to protecting lives and property and will ensure that those responsible face justice.

Details of the Attack

The tragic incident occurred on Saturday, January 17, 2026, when unknown gunmen forced their way into the home of Fatima Abubakar at about 12:10 p.m., attacking her and her children with dangerous weapons, according to police reports. The victims were later taken to Murtala Mohammed Specialist Hospital in Kano, where they were confirmed dead by medical personnel.

Arrest of Suspects

In response to the killings, the Kano State Police Command, acting on intelligence-led directives from Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, carried out a coordinated operation between Saturday night and early Sunday morning, resulting in the arrest of three suspects allegedly linked to the crime.

The suspects — Umar Auwalu (23), Isyaku Yakubu (40) and Yakubu Abdulaziz (21) — were caught during a targeted sting operation. Police sources say the lead suspect, Auwalu, is a nephew of the deceased woman and confessed to orchestrating the attack. Items recovered from the suspects included blood-stained clothing, mobile phones, weapons and cash reportedly tied to the assault.

Authorities have said investigations are ongoing to uncover the full circumstances of the murders and identify any additional accomplices.

Public and Government Reactions

The killings have sparked widespread condemnation from political and community leaders. The Speaker of the Kano State House of Assembly described the tragedy as heartbreaking and urged thorough investigations to ensure justice for the victims.

The swift response by the police and the government’s commitment to prosecuting the suspects have been welcomed by many residents, who are demanding stronger measures to curb violent crime in the state.