A 20-year-old woman, Maryam Atiku, has been arrested by the police for attempting to kill her newborn baby girl by burying her alive in Kamba, Dandi Local Government Area of Kebbi State.
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.
While describing the horrific act, the police statement revealed that the baby’s grave was discovered by a local farmer, Alhaji Kabiru Muhammad, who raised an alarm and, with the help of nearby residents, exhumed the baby, who was found alive.
According to the police, “The infant was rushed to the General Hospital, Kamba, where doctors confirmed her condition as stable after receiving medical attention.”
The police detectives from the State Criminal Investigation Department promptly arrested Maryam, who confessed to the crime during interrogation.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Bello Sani, condemned the act, describing it as “inhuman and unacceptable,” and reiterated the command’s zero tolerance for child abuse, exploitation, and gender-based violence. While urging parents and guardians to protect their children, CP Sani said, “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 CP also 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.
Justice is set to take its course as the suspect will be arraigned in court, where she will face prosecution aimed at serving as a deterrent to others.
