An 18‑year‑old woman identified as Fatima Dalha was taken into custody by the Nigeria Police Force on suspicion of attempted murder after she allegedly stabbed her 30‑year‑old husband, Usama, in the early hours of Sunday, 25 October 2026, in the town of Lirr Bajar, located within the Dass Local Government Area of Bauchi State.
Key facts
- The confrontation began around 6 a.m. following a quarrel over money, wrappers and a mobile phone that the husband was said to possess.
- Relatives claim the dispute was rooted in accusations that Usama had been unfaithful, having been caught with another woman in their marital bedroom.
- The victim’s father, Malam Yunusa Yusuf, recounted that his son initially survived an attempted throat‑slashing before being stabbed in the abdomen later that morning.
- Yusuf advised his son to stay at his own home for the night after the argument escalated to the point where a knife was brandished.
- The stabbing occurred at approximately 5 a.m. when the victim returned to retrieve a kettle and water for the pre‑dawn prayer; his wife allegedly approached from behind and inflicted the wound.
What triggered the disagreement?
According to a female relative who asked to remain unnamed, the couple’s tension intensified after Usama returned from a trip to Port Harcourt three days earlier. The relative said Usama informed his wife on Friday that he intended to visit a girlfriend, prompting his wife to demand the return of cash, wrappers and a phone she claimed belonged to her.
How did the attack unfold?
Yusuf narrated that his son first felt a sharp object against his neck while lying in bed, describing the lights as already off when a knife was pressed to his throat. The husband allegedly confronted his wife, which attracted the attention of nearby neighbours. Later, after being advised not to sleep in the marital home, the son stayed at his father’s house with his siblings. At about 5 a.m., while fetching a kettle for ablution, he was approached from behind by his wife, who stabbed him in the stomach. He screamed for help; neighbours intervened and pulled his clothing away from his neck, preventing further injury.
What actions have authorities taken?
Police reports confirm that Fatima Dalha was arrested on charges of attempted murder. The investigation is ongoing, with officials examining the alleged financial dispute and claims of infidelity as possible motives. The victim remains hospitalized, receiving treatment for the abdominal wound.
What did the victim’s father say?
"He told me the light was already off when he felt a knife on his neck. It was his wife who sneaked in and tried to cut his throat," Yusuf told Daily Trust. He added that the incident has left the family in deep confusion and grief as they try to comprehend the events that led to the violent act.