Police in Jigawa State have launched a full investigation into the death of a man in Jahun Local Government Area, following allegations that he was poisoned by his newlywed wife—a case that has reopened public debate about forced marriages and domestic conflict.
The incident occurred at about 5:00 p.m. on Friday, January 23, 2026, in Gauza village. The victim reportedly became critically ill shortly after eating a meal prepared at his home and was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he later died.
Confirming the development, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Jigawa State Command, Superintendent of Police Shi’isu Adam, said preliminary findings raised suspicion, prompting an immediate investigation by detectives from the Jahun Police Division.
The wife of the deceased was arrested and is currently in custody. According to police, she allegedly admitted during interrogation to lacing her husband’s food with rat poison, claiming she had been compelled into the marriage by her parents and was unhappy in the union.
“The suspect stated that she did not consent to the marriage and acted under emotional and psychological distress,” SP Adam said, adding that she also claimed a relative purchased the poison on her behalf.
Police authorities, however, cautioned that investigations are ongoing and that all claims made by the suspect are still being verified. The case has since been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Dutse for a more comprehensive probe, including the possible involvement of accomplices.
The Jigawa State Police Command said the suspect will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations and prosecuted in line with the law.
Beyond the criminal investigation, the incident has drawn attention to the dangers of unresolved marital disputes and the broader social consequences of forced unions. The police urged families and community leaders to promote lawful and peaceful conflict resolution mechanisms.
“The command appeals to the public to seek legal and social remedies rather than resorting to violence,” SP Adam said, warning that taking the law into one’s hands often leads to irreversible outcomes.
Police authorities reassured residents of Jigawa State of their commitment to justice and public safety, stressing that the case would be handled with diligence and transparency.
Police Probe Spousal Poisoning in Jigawa, Forced Marriage Concerns
