Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Bornet .k
The Bauchi State Police Command has arrested a 20-year-old woman, Rabi Abubakar, over the alleged fatal assault of her pregnant co-wife, an attack that resulted in the death of a newborn baby and has sparked renewed concern over domestic violence in Nigeria.
According to police, the incident occurred at about 7:30 a.m. on July 17, 2026, in Daba Village, Bauchi Local Government Area of Bauchi State. Investigators allege that a domestic disagreement between Rabi Abubakar and her 30-year-old co-wife escalated when the suspect allegedly poured boiling water on the pregnant woman, leaving her with severe burn injuries.
The victim was immediately rushed to the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital (ATBUTH), Bauchi, where doctors commenced emergency treatment. Despite suffering extensive burns, she went into labour while receiving medical care and delivered a baby boy on July 19, 2026. However, the infant, who reportedly sustained trauma linked to the injuries suffered by the mother, died the same day. The mother remains hospitalised and is said to be in stable condition, responding to treatment.
The case was formally reported to the police on July 22 by the Officer-in-Charge of the Dabe Police Outstation under the Soro Division. Police operatives visited the scene, launched an investigation and subsequently tracked down and arrested the suspect.
Confirming the development, the Police Public Relations Officer for the Bauchi State Command, SP Nafiu Habib, said the suspect allegedly made a voluntary confession during preliminary interrogation. He added that the matter has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for a comprehensive investigation and possible prosecution.
Reacting to the incident, Commissioner of Police Sani-Omolori Aliyu strongly condemned the attack, describing it as a tragic act of domestic violence. He assured the public that the command would carry out a diligent investigation and ensure that anyone found culpable faces the full weight of the law.
The commissioner also urged residents to resolve family disputes through peaceful dialogue rather than violence and encouraged members of the public to promptly report cases of domestic abuse to law enforcement agencies before they escalate into tragedies.
The incident has generated widespread public outrage, with many Nigerians calling for justice for the deceased infant and stronger measures to prevent domestic violence, particularly within vulnerable households. Human rights advocates have also renewed calls for improved community awareness, early intervention mechanisms and support services for victims of domestic abuse.
As investigations continue, the Bauchi State Police Command has reiterated its commitment to ensuring that the case is thoroughly investigated and prosecuted in accordance with the law, while expressing sympathy to the bereaved family over the tragic loss of the newborn.
📩 Stone Reporters News | 🌍 stonereportersnews.com
✉️ info@stonereportersnews.com | 📘 Facebook: Stone Reporters News | 🐦 X (Twitter): @StoneReportNew | 📸 Instagram: @stonereportersnews
Add comment
Comments