Suspect Confesses to Killing Family of Seven in Kano Court
From Our Correspondent.
The main suspect in the brutal Dorayi Chiranci murders, Umar Auwalu, testified before the Kano State High Court that he murdered his aunt’s daughter, Fatima Abubakar, and her six children under the instructions of a herbalist.
Auwalu, aged 23, made the confession while defending himself before Justice Nasiru Saminu at High Court No. 11. He stated that a traditional healer named Thomas provided him with incense and directed him to carry out similar crimes, as he had done in the past.
The suspect also cleared his co-defendants, Isyaku Yakubu Chobe and Yakubu Dayyabu, of any involvement, claiming he only named them after enduring police torture following his arrest.
During Wednesday’s proceedings, prosecutors led by Safiya Yalwati and Zaharaddeen Hamisu Kofar Mata presented evidence from police investigator Corporal Aliyu Jamilu. The defense also called witnesses.
The court adjourned the case to July 21 for further hearing.
The Dorayi Chiranci community was devastated on January 17 this year when Fatima Abubakar and her six children were murdered in their home. Police investigations led to the arrest of Auwalu, her nephew, and two others.
Initially, they faced an eight‑count charge at Magistrates’ Court No. 2, Nomansland, on February 5, 2026, including conspiracy, culpable homicide, robbery, and rape. After review by the Directorate of Public Prosecutions, the case was transferred to the High Court in April, where the suspects, including Auwalu, were re‑arraigned on nine counts. Auwalu admitted partial guilt, while the others pleaded not guilty.
