Teenage girl dies in Katsina, father arrested over alleged assault

A teenage girl identified simply as Ummul Khair has died in Katsina State under circumstances that have prompted a police investigation, with her father currently in custody over allegations that he physically assaulted her before her death.

The incident reportedly occurred in the Shagari Low-Cost area of Katsina metropolis, where the girl’s father, Kabir Sani, resides.

Residents told reporters that tensions had existed between the father and daughter for some time over plans to marry her to a suitor she allegedly did not approve of. Community members claimed the teenager had resisted the arrangement, leading to frequent disagreements within the family.

According to accounts from neighbours, the girl was allegedly subjected to a prolonged beating that began on Wednesday. Several residents said they heard distress calls from the house and attempted to intervene but were unable to gain access.

One resident said neighbours became increasingly concerned after hearing the teenager crying for help during the night.

“We heard her voice and tried to find out what was happening, but no one was allowed into the house. The next thing we heard was that she had passed away,” the resident said.

Her death was reportedly discovered when some of her schoolmates arrived at the house to accompany her to school.

The Katsina State Police Command confirmed that the girl’s father had been arrested in connection with the case.

Police spokesperson DSP Sadik Aliyu said investigators had commenced a full investigation into the incident and that the suspect remained in custody while inquiries continued.