A chilling case of suspected domestic homicide has shaken Jigawa State after police arrested a newly wedded woman over the death of her husband, who reportedly collapsed and died shortly after eating a meal she prepared at their home.
The Jigawa State Police Command confirmed the arrest on Saturday, saying the incident occurred in Gauza village, Jahun Local Government Area. According to a statement by the police spokesperson, Shiisu Lawan Adam, the deceased fell critically ill after consuming lunch prepared by his wife on Friday and was later confirmed dead.
Preliminary police findings indicate that rat poison was allegedly mixed into the food, triggering the man’s sudden illness and death. The suspect, whose name has not been released, was taken into custody as investigators began treating the case as culpable homicide.
Authorities say the marriage was recent, adding a disturbing layer to a case that has already sparked shock and speculation within the community. Neighbours reportedly raised alarm after the man began vomiting and showing signs of severe distress shortly after eating, but efforts to save him proved unsuccessful.
Police say the body has been evacuated for further examination, while toxicology tests are expected to confirm the exact cause of death. Investigators are also probing the circumstances surrounding the marriage, the relationship dynamics, and whether there were prior disputes or warning signs.
The Jigawa Police Command stressed that the suspect remains innocent until proven guilty and that the investigation is ongoing. However, the arrest underscores growing concerns about domestic violence, spousal killings, and unresolved marital conflicts escalating into fatal outcomes.
Cases involving alleged poisoning within marriages have continued to surface across Nigeria, often exposing deep-seated issues ranging from forced unions and financial disputes to emotional trauma and lack of conflict-resolution mechanisms. In many rural communities, such cases go unreported until death occurs.
For now, a man is dead, a young marriage has ended in tragedy, and a woman sits in police custody as investigators work to establish the truth behind what began as an ordinary meal and ended in a fatal accusation.
The police say further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.
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