By Imisioluwa Afunmiso
The Katsina State Government has condemned the killings in Kokami Village, Yakaji ‘A’ Ward of Danja Local Government Area, describing the incident as tragic and unacceptable.
The violence, which occurred on April 4, 2026, reportedly began as a dispute between two individuals, Ibrahim Khalil Auwal and Joe, also known as K.C. Jones, over the purchase of garri and sachet water at a shop.
According to the government, the disagreement escalated into a physical altercation during which Joe allegedly stabbed Auwal. The victim was rushed to Abdullahi Makama Hospital in Dabai, where he was later confirmed dead.
Following news of his death, angry youths in the community reportedly mobilised, attacked Joe, killed him, and set his body ablaze along a highway.
In a statement issued by the Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs, the government stressed that the incident was a criminal act arising from a personal dispute and should not be misinterpreted as an ethnic or religious conflict.
It assured that all those involved in the violence would be brought to justice.
“No individual has the right to take the law into their hands. Those responsible for both the initial attack and the reprisal killing will be identified and prosecuted,” the statement said.
The government also urged residents to remain calm, law-abiding, and avoid spreading rumours or misinformation that could further escalate tensions.
It noted that security agencies have been deployed to the area, with joint patrols ongoing to maintain peace and prevent further breakdown of law and order.
Governor Dikko Umaru Radda commiserated with the families of the deceased and prayed for the repose of their souls.
He also called on community and religious leaders to support efforts aimed at sustaining peace and harmony in the area.
Authorities confirmed that normalcy has since been restored in the affected community.