A 20-year-old woman, Maryam Atiku, has been taken into custody by the Kebbi State Police Command for allegedly attempting to kill her newborn daughter by burying her alive in Kamba, Dandi Local Government Area.
According to a statement issued on Wednesday by the command’s spokesperson, CSP Nafiu Abubakar, “The incident occurred on June 25, 2025, when Maryam allegedly tied the baby’s neck with wrappers, covered her mouth, and buried her in a shallow grave at Malam Yaro bush.”
The statement explained that on June 26, a farmer, Alhaji Kabiru Muhammad, noticed disturbed soil resembling a fresh grave near his farm. “He raised an alarm and, with the help of nearby residents, exhumed the baby, who was found alive. The infant was rushed to the General Hospital, Kamba, where doctors confirmed her condition as stable after receiving medical attention.”
Police detectives from the State CID later apprehended Maryam, who confessed to the act during interrogation.
Commissioner of Police, Bello Sani, condemned the act, describing it as “inhuman and unacceptable,” while restating the command’s stand against child abuse, exploitation, and gender-based violence.
“He urged parents, guardians, and community leaders to protect children under their care and not compromise their future due to poverty or other pressures. The CP commended the wife of the Kebbi State Governor, Hajiya Zainab Nasir Idris, for supporting the welfare of the rescued baby and praised Alhaji Kabiru Muhammad for his timely intervention. The suspect will be arraigned in court, where she will face prosecution aimed at serving as a deterrent to others.”
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