Police arrest barber over fatal stabbing in Jigawa

The police in Jigawa State have taken a 29-year-old barber into custody following the alleged killing of a 32-year-old man during a disagreement in Dutse.

The suspect, identified as Emmanuel Olatonok, was accused of stabbing Ibrahim Shago, a resident of Karnaya town, in the neck with a knife at Rafin Sanyi, Dutse Local Government Area.

The incident happened at about 5:45 pm on Thursday, October 29, 2026. Police said the suspect, who reportedly worked at Moonlight Hotel in the area, was allegedly under the influence of alcohol when the disagreement occurred.

Shago was taken to a hospital shortly after the attack but was pronounced dead by a doctor.

The incident reportedly attracted a crowd of youths who attempted to attack the hotel where the suspect worked. Police officers from Dutse Division, however, intervened and prevented the situation from escalating.

In a statement, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Shiisu Lawan Adam, said the suspect remained in custody as investigators worked to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident.

He added that the suspect would be prosecuted after the investigation had been completed.

The Commissioner of Police, Tijjani Murtala, urged residents to avoid violence during disagreements and advised anyone with grievances to seek redress through lawful channels rather than resorting to self-help.