Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
A jealous first wife, Maryam Muhammad, has been arrested by the Kano State Police Command for allegedly setting her husband’s second wife, the man himself, and two children ablaze in their home in the Mai Allo area of Hotoro quarters, Kano. The incident occurred on the night of Tuesday, May 12, 2026, leaving all five victims with severe burns. The second wife, Firdausi Musa, 28, had married the husband, Mallam Saminu, a commercial tricycle (keke Napep) rider, just two weeks before the attack. Reports indicate that Maryam Muhammad had been threatening and intimidating Firdausi since the marriage.
The victims include Firdausi Musa, her two children from a previous marriage, Khadija Yau and Ismail Yau, and the husband, Mallam Saminu, who sustained burns while trying to rescue the others. All four victims are currently receiving treatment at the National Orthopaedic Hospital Dala and the Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital in Kano. Their conditions have not been officially disclosed, but hospital sources described the burns as serious.
A neighbour, who spoke on condition of anonymity, told reporters that the first wife had repeatedly expressed anger over the new marriage. “She had warned the second wife that she would regret marrying her husband. We never thought she would go this far,” the neighbour said. The attack occurred late at night, reportedly while the family was asleep. Maryam Muhammad allegedly poured a flammable substance and set the room on fire before fleeing. She was later apprehended by police following a manhunt.
The Kano State Police Command confirmed the arrest and stated that investigations are ongoing. The suspect is expected to be charged with attempted murder and arson. The incident has sparked outrage on social media, with many condemning the act of violence. One commenter wrote, “Haba Maryam, which kain jealousy be this?” The question captures the bewilderment of a public struggling to comprehend how envy could lead a person to burn innocent children and attempt to kill an entire family.
The police have urged members of the public to seek peaceful and lawful means of resolving domestic disputes and to avoid resorting to violence. The case highlights the growing concern over domestic violence and polygamous jealousy in northern Nigeria, where such incidents, though condemned, are not unheard of. As the victims fight for their lives in hospital, the legal process against Maryam Muhammad is expected to begin soon.
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