Gbako, Niger State – April 18, 2025 | SpringNewsNG Media Limited —
A tragic case of jealousy and violence has unfolded in Niger State, where a man, Muhammad Ma’aba, was allegedly beaten to death by his fiancée’s ex-husband and a group of accomplices in what appears to be a fatal domestic rivalry.

The attack occurred on the rural path between Saganuwa and Fujeregi villages, in Gbako Local Government Area, when Ma’aba was ambushed and brutally assaulted. According to local witnesses, the alleged mastermind of the attack is Alhaji Yikangi of Chikan village, the former husband of Fatima Suleiman, the woman Ma’aba intended to marry.

Love Triangle Turns Deadly: Ex-Husband Allegedly Opposes New Marriage

Community sources revealed that Fatima Suleiman had previously been divorced three times by Alhaji Yikangi, under Islamic law — a situation that, by religious custom, bars any future reconciliation between the former couple. However, Yikangi allegedly continued to object to her plans to remarry and was reportedly insistent that she remain single.

“Ma’aba was simply planning to marry a woman who had legally and religiously separated from her previous husband. He didn’t deserve to die for that,” one villager said.

Police Confirm Brutal Assault Leading to Death

The Niger State Police Command, through its spokesperson, SP Wasiu Abiodun, confirmed the incident in an official statement released on Friday, April 18, 2025.

“At about 2:00 PM on April 17, 2025, the police received a report that a group led by one Alhaji Yikangi of Chikan village attacked Muhammad Ma’aba of Fujeregi village. The attack was said to be fueled by a dispute involving one Fatima Suleiman,” the statement reads.

Ma’aba was reportedly left in a coma following the assault and was rushed to Lemu General Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

Ongoing Investigation Into Fatal Assault

SP Abiodun added that the police have commenced a full-scale investigation, and efforts are ongoing to track and arrest all individuals involved in the assault.

“We are treating this as a serious criminal matter. Justice will be pursued fully,” he assured.

The incident has sparked outrage in the community, with residents calling for swift justice and stronger protections for individuals seeking to remarry after divorce — especially in cases where former partners may still pose a threat.