Kano State Governor Takes Firm Stand on Capital Punishment After Family Massacre
In a decisive response to the horrific killing of a woman and her six children in Kano State, Governor Abba Yusuf has pledged to sign death warrants for convicted murderers. The governor made this commitment during a visit to the bereaved father, Haruna Bashir, on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, following the brutal attack that has shaken the Dorayi Charanchi community.
Governor's Vow Extends to High-Profile Cases
Governor Yusuf emphasized that his firm stance on capital punishment applies not only to the recent tragedy but also to other high-profile murder cases in the state. He specifically mentioned the killing of five-year-old Hanifa Abubakar in January 2022 and the devastating Gezawa mosque arson attack in 2024, which resulted in 17 fatalities. The governor directed the state attorney-general and commissioner for justice to expedite the prosecution of all suspects involved in these cases.
Police Prosecution of Suspects Underway
Authorities in Kano have confirmed that several individuals are currently facing prosecution for various killings across the state. Among those being prosecuted is private school teacher Abdulmalik Tanko, who stands accused of kidnapping and murdering his pupil, Hanifa Abubakar. Another suspect, 38-year-old Shafiu Abubakar, is being prosecuted for allegedly setting fire to the Gezawa mosque, leading to multiple deaths.
In the recent Dorayi Charanchi case, police announced on Sunday that three suspects have been taken into custody in connection with the January 18 attack. Governor Yusuf commended the police, State Security Services, and other security agencies for their swift collaboration and effective action in apprehending the suspects.
Government Support for Bereaved Father
According to a statement from the governor's spokesperson, Sunusi Bature, the Kano State Government has approved comprehensive support for Haruna Bashir, who lost his wife and six children in the attack. The support package includes:
- Full funding for Bashir to perform Hajj and Umrah
- A new house and ongoing welfare support
- Assistance in remarrying and restarting his life
In a gesture of gratitude for this government intervention, Bashir has donated his personal residence to the Kano State Government. The property will be converted into an Islamiyya school to benefit the local community.
Community Impact and Response
The brutal daytime attack has left the Dorayi Charanchi community traumatized, shattering the area's long-standing reputation for peace and strong community ties. Residents remain in disbelief, struggling to comprehend how such violence could occur in their midst.
A neighbor, Malam Bala Abubakar, reported hearing frantic screams from the house while preparing to bathe. Artisans working on a nearby building also heard the cries and raised the alarm, prompting more residents and the ward head, Ahmad Ya'u Yahaya, to converge on the scene.
Governor Yusuf's strong stance on capital punishment represents a significant shift in the state's approach to violent crime, signaling a determination to ensure justice is served for victims and their families while addressing growing concerns about security in the region.
