Woman and Two Children Burned in Kano Co-Wife Attack

A 28-year-old woman, Firdausi Musa, and her two young children have been hospitalised after being allegedly attacked by her co-wife, Maryam Muhammad, in the Hotoro area of Kano metropolis. The violent incident, which occurred late Monday at Mai Allo, Hotoro quarters, left the family severely injured and shocked residents. Firdausi, who had spent less than two weeks in the matrimonial home, is now receiving medical treatment alongside her children, Khadija Ya’u, 7, and Ismail Ya’u, 3, at the National Orthopaedic Hospital, Dala, and the Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital, Kano. Their father, Malam Saminu, who sustained injuries while attempting to rescue them, is also being treated in hospital.

The suspect, Maryam Muhammad, is currently in police custody at the Mariri Police Division. According to reports, the attack involved the use of petrol, which was poured on the victims before being set alight. Firdausi’s younger brother, Buhari Musa Sa’ad, confirmed the incident during an interview with Daily Trust, stating that the family received a distress call around 3 am. He revealed that Firdausi had brought the two children from her previous marriage, and they are stepchildren to her current husband, who works as a tricycle rider.

A relative of the victim, Rukayya, provided further details, saying Firdausi had previously complained about threats and intimidation from her co-wife. “We were lying down here when she was brought in, and she told us herself that it was her co-wife who poured petrol on her and lit a match,” Rukayya said. She added that Firdausi had left the house earlier due to the repeated threats but returned after her husband intervened, hoping for a peaceful resolution.

The incident has sparked concern over domestic violence and the safety of women and children in polygamous households across Nigeria. Authorities are investigating the case, and police have begun gathering statements from witnesses and family members. The hospital staff treating the victims have reported that the injuries are serious, requiring intensive care and possible surgeries.

This tragic event highlights the urgent need for stronger legal protections and support systems for women and children in domestic violence situations. As investigations continue, the community remains on edge, hoping for justice and swift action from law enforcement. The case is expected to draw wider attention to the challenges faced by women in polygamous marriages, especially in northern Nigeria.