Recent Events in Kano: Arrests, Deaths, and Economic Impact

Kano State has recently been the scene of several unfortunate incidents, ranging from arrests for vandalism to property disputes and accidental deaths, alongside economic setbacks due to fires. These events underscore the diverse challenges facing the state and its residents.
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Kano has apprehended five individuals suspected of vandalizing public properties. According to Ibrahim Idris Abdullahi, the Public Relations Officer of the command, the suspects, Abdulbasi Usman, Yahaya Isa, Abubakar Sadiq Abdullahi, and Adamu Murtala, were caught stealing from Government Secondary Schools in Unguwar Rimi and Unguwa Uku. The stolen items included roofing sheets, iron rods, cushion chairs, and learning materials. Additionally, one Alasan Inusa was arrested for vandalizing and stealing electric pole equipment in Dambatta Local Government Area. The NSCDC has completed investigations and plans to charge the suspects in court.
In a separate development, the Kano State Ministry of Land and Physical Planning faced criticism after publishing a list of property title defaulters that included deceased individuals. The list, signed by Commissioner Alhaji Abdulajjabar M. Umar, identified 100 property owners from Fagge Local Government Area who had not recertified their land titles. Among those listed were prominent figures who passed away years ago, such as Alhaji Bala Mai Yafe, Alhaji Mudi Spikin, and Alhaji Nababa Badamasi. Commissioner Umar has since announced a 60-day extension for the recertification process, noting that over 241,000 property owners in six LGAs have already complied.
Tragedy struck in Gezawa Local Government Area when two women drowned in a water puddle. The Kano State Fire Service confirmed that the women, who worked at a local zobo processing company, entered the water to bathe after work and tragically lost their lives. Despite initial search efforts, their bodies were recovered the following morning and handed over to the Gezawa Police Division for further investigation, according to Assistant Chief Fire Officer Saminu Yusif Abdullahi.
Adding to the state’s woes, a fire outbreak at Gandun Albasa, a hub for furniture production near the Kano Trade Fair Complex, destroyed four shops. The fire, reportedly caused by an electrical spark, resulted in significant losses for furniture makers. Mu’azu Inuwa Indabawa, a shop owner, estimated losses in the millions of naira. The Kano State Fire Service’s timely intervention prevented the fire from spreading to nearby structures. This incident highlights the economic vulnerabilities of local artisans and traders in Kano.
Despite these challenges, the Kano State Fire Service reported saving six lives and properties worth N1.2 billion from various fire incidents in January 2025, demonstrating their ongoing efforts to protect the community.