By Laiatu Augustine Bamaiyi.
A shocking case of attempted infanticide has been uncovered in Kebbi State, where the police arrested a 20-year-old mother, Maryam Atiku, for allegedly burying her newborn baby girl alive in a shallow grave.
According to the Kebbi State Police Command, the incident occurred on June 25, 2025, in the Nasarawa area of Kamba, Dandi Local Government Area.
Atiku was said to have tied the baby with three wrappers around her neck, covered her mouth, and buried her in a bush near Malam Yaro village.
The crime came to light the following day when a farmer, Alhaji Kabiru Muhammad, discovered disturbed soil resembling a fresh grave on his farmland. Upon raising the alarm, villagers helped exhume the baby, miraculously found alive.
She was rushed to the General Hospital, Kamba, where she was certified stable.
Police detectives swiftly arrested the suspect after receiving the report.
During interrogation, Atiku confessed to the crime.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Bello M. Sani, condemned the act, reaffirming the Command’s zero tolerance for child abuse, exploitation, and gender-based violence.
The CP also commended Governor Nasir Idris’ wife, Haj Zainab Nasare Nasir Idris, and some CSO, who are dedicated in fighting gender issues for stepping in to support the rescued baby and its custodian, Alhaji Muhammad.
The police confirmed that Atiku has been arraigned in court after a diligent investigation, with the case expected to serve as a deterrent to others.
Police spokesperson, CSP Nafiu Abubakar, urged parents and community leaders to protect children under their care and resist harmful practices driven by poverty or other social factors.
