The Kebbi State Police Command has arrested Sule Gurmu, who is accused of killing his wife, Umaima Maidawa, in an alleged domestic violence incident that has shocked residents of Bayawa community in Augie Local Government Area of the state.
The incident reportedly occurred on January 13, 2026, during a domestic dispute at their home in Bayawa. Police sources said Gurmu allegedly struck his 25-year-old wife with a wooden hoe handle. Umaima was later confirmed dead, prompting an investigation by security agencies.
Following the incident, the suspect reportedly fled the community. However, after days of search, he was tracked and arrested on Saturday in Katami town, Silame Local Government Area of Sokoto State.
The arrest followed a directive by the Chairman of Augie Local Government Area, Yahaya Augie, who ordered security agencies to ensure the immediate apprehension of the suspect. The operation was jointly carried out by officers of the Nigeria Police Force and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps.
PUNCH Metro gathered that the manhunt extended across Kebbi and Sokoto states before Gurmu was eventually apprehended.
Earlier, Augie had visited the scene of the incident and supervised the evacuation of the victim’s body to Argungu General Hospital for an autopsy. He condemned the killing, describing it as unacceptable, and stressed that his administration would not tolerate domestic violence or criminal acts within the local government area.
Residents of Bayawa community have continued to mourn the victim, calling for justice and increased sensitisation against domestic abuse. Civil society organisations in Kebbi State have also expressed concern over rising cases of household violence, urging authorities to intensify awareness campaigns, especially in rural areas.
Domestic violence offences in Nigeria are addressed under state penal laws and national legislation such as the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act (VAPP Act), which criminalises abuse and provides protection for victims. Advocacy groups have repeatedly called for wider implementation of the Act across states.
Commending the efforts of security operatives, Hon. Augie assured residents that the suspect would be made to face the law. He also extended condolences to the family of the deceased and reaffirmed his commitment to the safety of lives and property in Augie Local Government Area.
Confirming the arrest on Sunday, the Kebbi State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bashir Usman, said the suspect would be charged to court after investigations are concluded.
“Yes, the husband has been arrested and will be arraigned in court upon completion of the investigation,” he said.
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