The Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, visited the family of Ummulkhairi Aliyu on Saturday. A mob in Maraban Jos, Igabi Local Government Area, lynched Ms Aliyu. During his condolence visit to the bereaved home in Maraban Jos, Mr Sani vowed that everyone involved in her brutal killing would face justice. The governor met with Ms Aliyu’s husband, Malam Aliyu, and other relatives, expressing his condolences over what he described as a tragic and heartbreaking loss.
Addressing the grieving family, Mr Sani said the state government would not allow the perpetrators to escape justice. He disclosed that 41 suspects had already been arrested, while security agencies were intensifying efforts to apprehend others.
The governor further stated that an investigation was underway to determine whether any police officer was involved in the incident, warning that anyone found culpable would be prosecuted.
The support for the family
Beyond assuring the family of justice, Mr Sani announced that he would personally support Ms Aliyu’s husband and assume responsibility for the welfare and education of her children until they reach adulthood. “I will personally stand by this family. The children will not be abandoned,” the governor assured.
He also prayed for the repose of the deceased’s soul and urged the family to remain steadfast despite their painful loss.
Residents applaud the governor’s visit
Governor Sani’s visit was met with cheers from residents, many of whom lined the streets as his convoy arrived and departed the community.
Several residents who spoke to PREMIUM TIMES said the governor’s presence demonstrated empathy and reassured the community that the government was committed to ensuring justice for the deceased. Others expressed appreciation for his pledge to support the bereaved family, particularly his commitment to care for Ms Aliyu’s children.
Many residents also condemned the mob action, describing it as barbaric, shameful and contrary to the community’s values. They urged security agencies to ensure that everyone involved in the killing is prosecuted to serve as a deterrent against future acts of jungle justice.
“We are happy that the governor came here himself instead of just sending a message. His visit has given this family hope that justice will be done,” said Hassan Banaga.
Another resident, Balkisu Umar, condemned the killing, stating that no one deserved to die in such a manner. “What happened to Ummulkhairi was heartbreaking and unacceptable. Even if someone is accused of theft, there are police and courts to handle such matters. Those responsible must be punished so that this kind of jungle justice never happens again,” she said.
A community elder, Malam Yakubu, also praised the governor’s intervention. “The entire community has been traumatised by this incident. We appreciate the governor for standing with the family and assuring us that justice will prevail. We want everyone involved, no matter who they are, to face the law.”
Government vows accountability
Governor Sani reiterated that his administration would not tolerate lawlessness or mob violence, stressing that every Nigerian deserves the protection of the law regardless of the allegations against them.
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He assured residents that all suspects already in custody would be prosecuted and that efforts to arrest the remaining suspects would continue until everyone connected with the crime is brought before the courts. The governor urged members of the public to remain calm, cooperate with security agencies and allow the judicial process to take its course, saying justice for Ms Aliyu would not be compromised.
Background
A mob in Maraban Jos allegedly lynched Ms Aliyuter, being accused of stealing a mobile phone. Witnesses said the situation escalated rapidly before law enforcement officers could restore order.
Videos and photographs circulating on social media triggered nationwide condemnation, with many Nigerians describing the incident as a disturbing case of jungle justice. Human rights advocates, religious leaders and community organisations condemned the killing, insisting that no allegation of theft justifies taking the law into one’s own hands. They urged authorities to ensure that everyone responsible is identified and prosecuted.
