‘I Will Not Hesitate’: Governor Yusuf Ready to Sign Death Warrant for Killers of Fatima and Six Children

KANO — In a firm declaration of zero tolerance for violent crime, Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has vowed that he will personally sign the death warrant for the perpetrators behind the gruesome murder of Fatima Abubakar and her six children.

Speaking at the Government House on Thursday, the Governor expressed deep outrage over the tragedy that shook the Dorayi Chiranchi Quarters last week. He assured the grieving family and the people of Kano that his administration would ensure the law takes its full course without delay.

“No Mercy for Barbarians”

Addressing security chiefs and community leaders, Governor Yusuf described the act as “barbaric and sub-human.” He insisted that the magnitude of the crime demands the ultimate punishment to serve as a deterrent to others.

“Let me state clearly: once the investigation is concluded and the courts pass judgment, if they are sentenced to death, I will not hesitate to sign the warrant,” Governor Yusuf declared. “We cannot allow individuals who slaughter innocent children and their mother to breathe the same air as law-abiding citizens. Justice must be swift and absolute.”

The Governor also commended the Kano State Police Command for the rapid apprehension of the prime suspect, Umar Auwal, and two accomplices, who were reportedly caught with the help of vigilant community members.

The Horror at Dorayi Chiranchi

The incident, which occurred on Saturday, January 17, 2026, left the nation in shock. According to police reports, the attackers invaded the home of Fatima Abubakar while her husband was away.

In a scene of unimaginable horror, the assailants allegedly stabbed the victims before setting the house ablaze to cover their tracks. Reports indicate that the youngest child, barely a year old, was thrown into a well during the attack.

The prime suspect, Umar Auwal—who is reportedly a nephew to the victim—confessed to the crime following his arrest, citing a dispute over money as his motive.

Presidential Backing

The Governor’s strong stance aligns with the directive from President Bola Tinubu, who earlier condemned the killings. Through a statement by the Presidency, Tinubu charged the police to ensure the suspects face the full wrath of the law, describing the massacre as an assault on the nation’s conscience.

As the suspects await arraignment, residents of Kano have rallied behind the Governor’s promise, calling for a speedy trial to close one of the darkest chapters in the state’s recent history.