By Deborah Nnamdi
A 96-year-old woman, Hajiya Umma Husaini, has died after she was allegedly attacked by her granddaughter at their residence in Daura, Katsina State, in an incident that has shocked residents and plunged the community into mourning.
The incident reportedly occurred in the early hours of Saturday when the suspect, identified as Aisha Muktar, allegedly struck the elderly woman with a mortar, leaving her critically injured.
Sources said neighbours and relatives who rushed to the scene found Hajiya Umma lying unconscious in a pool of blood. She was immediately taken to the Federal Medical Centre in Daura for emergency treatment.
Despite efforts by medical personnel to save her life, the nonagenarian was pronounced dead a few hours later.
Confirming the incident, the deceased’s eldest son, Muktar Husaini, described the tragedy as devastating and unexpected.
“It is true that my mother was attacked and later died at the hospital. We are all in shock because she had no history of misunderstanding with anyone in Daura,” he said.
He described his late mother as a peaceful and patient woman who was widely respected in the community for her humility and good relationship with neighbours.
“My mother was a very calm and patient woman. She never quarrelled with anyone, and she was respected by everyone who knew her,” he added.
Family members disclosed that Hajiya Umma had lived with diabetes for many years and had undergone the amputation of both legs as a result of complications from the illness. Despite her health challenges, she was said to have remained resilient, prayerful, and devoted to her family.
News of her death quickly spread across Daura, drawing sympathisers to the family home as residents struggled to come to terms with the violent death of a woman many described as harmless and kind-hearted.
The Katsina State Police Command has confirmed the incident and said the suspect is in custody.
Police spokesperson, DSP Sadik Aliyu, said investigations are ongoing to determine the circumstances surrounding the attack and establish the motive behind it.
The incident has sparked widespread condemnation from residents and community leaders, who have called for a thorough investigation and justice for the deceased. It has also renewed concerns about domestic violence and the protection of elderly persons within families and communities.
