A 20-year-old mother, Maryam Atiku, has been arrested by the police in Kebbi State for allegedly attempting to kill her newborn baby girl.
Atiku, according to a police report buried her baby alive in Kamba, Dandi Local Government Area of the state.
The Kebbi Police command spokesman, CSP Nafiu Abubakar, said “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 following day, June 26, a farmer, Alhaji Kabiru Muhammad, while working on his farm near the area, discovered a patch of disturbed soil resembling a fresh grave.
“He raised an alarm and, with the help of nearby residents, exhumed the baby, who was found alive. The infant was rushed to General Hospital, Kamba, where doctors confirmed her condition as stable after receiving medical attention”
The statement said police detectives from the State Criminal Investigation Department promptly arrested Maryam, who confessed to the crime during interrogation.
Commissioner of Police, CP Bello Sani, described the act as “inhuman and unacceptable,” reiterating the Command’s zero tolerance for 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 Police Commissioner 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.”
