Hotel Worker Hospitalized After Brutal Boiling Water Attack in Kano
A 23-year-old hotel worker is fighting for recovery after suffering severe burns when her colleague's girlfriend allegedly poured boiling water on her in a shocking incident that occurred in Kano.
Victoria Emmanuel is currently receiving medical treatment for extensive burns covering her face, back, chest, and hands following the violent attack that took place on November 10, 2025.
The Fateful Day That Turned Violent
The tragedy unfolded at a residence in Kawo area of Kano, where Victoria had accompanied her 28-year-old colleague, Shadrach Michael, to collect items for her upcoming birthday celebration.
According to Victoria's sister, Rosemary Emmanuel, Shadrach had suggested a brief stop at his apartment before they proceeded to the market. Trouble began when Shadrach's girlfriend, Chioma Michael, called to announce she was visiting.
"Although Shadrach discouraged her from coming, Chioma allegedly arrived minutes later and met Victoria in the apartment," Rosemary narrated in her account of the incident.
The Boiling Water Assault
What followed was a calculated act of violence that left Victoria with life-threatening injuries. Rosemary detailed how Chioma claimed she wanted to take a warm bath and began boiling water.
"When the gas finished, she borrowed more from a neighbor and continued heating it," Rosemary explained. "Moments later, she allegedly carried the pot and poured its contents on Victoria."
The attack resulted in severe burns across Victoria's face, back, chest, and hands. In the shocking aftermath, Shadrach reportedly hit Chioma in disbelief as she fled the scene, allegedly taking Victoria's phone with her.
Five Hours Without Medical Help
One of the most disturbing aspects of this case is that Victoria was locked inside the apartment for nearly five hours—from approximately 3:00 p.m. to nearly 8:00 p.m.—without receiving any medical attention for her severe burns.
The family later received a call from Victoria, who had been taken to Abdullahi Wase Teaching Hospital. Due to the unavailability of a doctor, she was subsequently transferred to a clinic in Nomansland for treatment.
Police Investigation and Court Proceedings
The matter was officially reported at the Hotoro Police Division around midnight following the incident. In a strategic move to compel the suspect's appearance, police arrested Chioma's mother.
This tactic proved effective as Chioma later turned herself in to authorities. The case has since been transferred to the Bompai Police Headquarters for further investigation.
During court proceedings at a Magistrate Court sitting in Kawaji, Dakata, both Chioma and Rosemary presented their accounts of the incident.
Defense counsel Chris Njogwu applied for bail, but Magistrate Zuhura Madaki refused the request, noting the seriousness of the charges.
Chioma faces charges of attempting to commit culpable homicide under Section 229 of the Penal Code, an offence that carries potential punishment of life imprisonment or, in some cases, death.
Magistrate Madaki emphasized that suspects charged with capital offences can only be granted bail by a High Court judge under exceptional circumstances. The court ordered Chioma's remand at the Goron Dutse Correctional Centre until December 9, when the case will be mentioned again.
Family's Response and Denials
Rosemary stated that the family has not yet decided on legal action but noted that Chioma has shown no remorse for her actions. She also strongly dismissed rumors of any romantic relationship between Victoria and Shadrach, insisting they were merely co-workers.
Despite the traumatic experience, Victoria is said to be responding well to treatment and continues her recovery journey.
This disturbing case has highlighted concerns about workplace safety and domestic violence, raising questions about how such brutal attacks can be prevented in the future.
