"Baby Buried Alive: Kebbi Police Nab 20-Year-Old Mother"

By Umar Faruk

Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State, Nigeria - September 3, 2025 (Series News Online)

The Kebbi State Police Command has arrested a 20-year-old mother, Maryam Atiku, for burying her newborn baby girl alive in a bush in Kamba, Dandi Local Government Area of the state.

According to the police, the suspect gave birth to the baby on June 25, 2025, and subsequently tied the baby's neck with three pieces of wrappers, covered her mouth, and buried her alive in a shallow hole in Malam Yaro bush.

Fortunately, the baby was rescued alive on June 26, 2025, by one Alhaji Kabiru Muhammad, who discovered the grave-like patch of soil in his farm and raised an alarm that attracted nearby people to exhume the baby. The baby was later taken to General Hospital, Kamba, where she received medical attention and was certified stable.

The Commissioner of Police, Kebbi State Command, CP Bello M. Sani, said, "The Command has zero tolerance for child abuse, exploitation, and all forms of gender-based violence in the state." He called on parents, guardians, and community leaders to protect children under their care and resist compromising their future due to poverty or other factors.

The CP appreciated the efforts of the wife of the Executive Governor of Kebbi State, Her Excellency, Hajiya Zainab Nasare Nasir Idris Kauran Gwandu, for taking good care of the rescued newborn baby.

The suspect has been arraigned in court for prosecution, and the police aim to serve as a deterrent to would-be criminals. CSP Nafiu Abubakar, Police Public Relations Officer, disclosed this in a press release on September 3, 2025.