Residents of Kano State were thrown into confusion and sorrow following a tragic domestic incident in which a woman and her two children were allegedly set ablaze by her co-wife over suspected jealousy-related disputes.
The victim, identified as 28-year-old Firdausi Musa, reportedly suffered severe burns alongside her two children after the suspect, Maryam Muhammad, allegedly attacked them inside their residence in the Hotoro area of Kano metropolis.
According to eyewitness accounts, the suspect was said to have poured a flammable substance believed to be petrol on the victims before setting them on fire during a heated confrontation at the family house.
The two children, Khadija Ya’u, aged seven, and Ismail Ya’u, aged three, sustained life threatening injuries and are currently receiving emergency treatment alongside their mother at a hospital in Kano. Medical sources disclosed that their condition remains critical.The husband of the family was also reportedly injured while attempting to rescue the victims from the burning apartment.
Neighbours disclosed that misunderstanding and rivalry had existed between the two women for a long period, with several attempts reportedly made by relatives and community elders to settle their disputes before the unfortunate incident occurred.
Security operatives later arrived at the scene and arrested the suspect, who is presently in police custody as
investigations continue into the matter.
The incident has generated widespread reactions across social media platforms, with many Nigerians condemning domestic violence, unhealthy rivalry in polygamous homes and acts of jealousy capable of destroying families and innocent lives.
Residents of the area have meanwhile called for justice for the victims while praying for the survival and speedy recovery of the injured mother and her children.
Lukman Ayyubi