Jigawa Police Arrest Eight Over Deadly Gujungu Market Violence That Claimed Two Lives

The Jigawa State Police Command has arrested eight suspects over the violent unrest that rocked Gujungu Market in Taura Local Government Area, leaving two people dead and another seriously injured.

Police said the arrests followed intelligence-led operations launched after the violence, which began on July 26, escalated into attacks on security personnel and destruction of property.

According to the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Lawan Shiisu Adam, the crisis started after an altercation between a soldier, Nura Bashir, and Biniya Alhaji Ibrahim, 25, from Miga Local Government Area, at the market. During the confrontation, the soldier allegedly stabbed the victim, who later died while receiving treatment at a hospital.

The incident sparked widespread unrest as hoodlums allegedly attacked a police station, fired bows and arrows at security operatives and set two thatched shops ablaze. Police said Muhammed Muhammed, 22, and Faridu Mohammed were arrested for allegedly taking part in the attack, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend other fleeing suspects.

The command also linked another fatal incident to the same crisis. On August 2, six more suspects were arrested for allegedly attacking two vigilante members with sticks and cutlasses. One of the vigilantes later died from injuries sustained in the assault, while the second victim remains hospitalised.

Those arrested in connection with the attack were identified as Isiyaku Abdulkarim, Yahaya Habu, Ibrahim Abubakar, Audu Mamman Janare, Ya’u Duga, and Mamman Musa, all from Taura, Gagarawa, Kaugama, and Jahun Local Government Areas.

Police also recovered six cows believed to have been abandoned during the violence. Investigators are working to establish the full circumstances surrounding the unrest and ensure everyone involved is brought to justice.

To prevent a recurrence, the command said it has begun stakeholder engagements involving Miyetti Allah leaders, traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth representatives, community leaders and security agencies to address the root causes of the conflict.

The Commissioner of Police commended officers and other security agencies for their swift response in containing the violence and reassured residents of the command’s commitment to protecting lives and property. He also urged members of the public to remain law-abiding and continue providing credible information to support ongoing investigations.