Minannata Residents Seek Justice After Teacher Stabbed to Death in Sokoto

By Fahad Faruk Galadanchi

Tension and sorrow have gripped Minannata community in Sokoto State as residents continue to demand justice over the killing of a teacher, Usman Halilu.

Halilu was allegedly murdered by Mansur Arzika, a fellow resident in an attack believed to be connected to an earlier dispute involving a stolen mobile phone.

According to a resident, Maccido Muhammad the matter had previously been reported to the police, and the suspect was allegedly found in possession of the missing phone during investigations.

He said the incident happened around 11 p.m. on Sunday when Halilu was returning home after closing his shop

The suspect reportedly attacked him with a knife, stabbing him while the victim cried out for help and pleaded to be taken to the hospital.

Witnesses said the attacker fled the scene but later returned and stabbed Halilu again while residents were too frightened to intervene.

The victim was rushed to the hospital but died before receiving treatment.

Residents later tracked down the suspect, who had gon into hiding, and handed him over to the police.

The case was first reported at Unguwan Rogo Police Station before being transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department for further investigation.

Human rights lawyer, Barrister Abdulrahaman Jariri, praised the community for avoiding mob action and urged security agencies to ensure justice is served through due process.

He also called on the Sokoto State Government and other stakeholders to provide meaningful support to the bereaved family.

Another resident, Malam Mudassiru who said he had known the suspect for more than 20 years, alleged that the accused had shown violent tendencies in the past, though never at such a level. He added that the suspect’s family had condemned the act and were not shielding him.