Katsina Ritual Attack: 20-Year-Old 'Native Doctor' Arrested for Attempted Murder of 10-Year-Old Boy

 

​The quiet community of Kuidawa Village in Katsina State has been thrown into a state of shock following the arrest of a 20-year-old man, Aliyu Ashabu, for a gruesome ritual-related attack on a young child. This chilling incident highlights the persistent dangers of ritualism and the importance of community vigilance in protecting the most vulnerable members of society.

​The Chilling Details of the Kuidawa Village Incident

​On the evening of February 22, 2026, at approximately 7:30 p.m., what seemed like a normal night turned into a nightmare for 10-year-old Alhassan Usman. According to police reports and sources close to the investigation, Aliyu Ashabu, who allegedly masquerades as a native doctor or "Boka," targeted the young boy with a sinister motive.

​Ashabu is accused of using deception to lure Alhassan away from the safety of his familiar surroundings and into a nearby bush. Once isolated, the suspect allegedly committed a horrific act by pushing the helpless child into a deep well. This calculated move was reportedly not a random act of violence but a pre-meditated attempt at a ritual killing.

​A Miraculous Rescue and Recovery

​For nearly twenty-four hours, young Alhassan Usman remained trapped within the dark confines of the well, fighting for his life. It wasn't until the following day, February 23, that a "good Samaritan" heard the child's cries or noticed something amiss. Thanks to this timely intervention, the boy was successfully rescued from the depths of the well.

​Alhassan was immediately rushed to the General Hospital in Katsina. Medical professionals confirmed that the boy sustained various injuries during the fall and the subsequent period of exposure. While he is currently receiving intensive treatment, the psychological trauma of such an event is expected to be a long road for the young survivor.

​Police Intervention and the Suspect's Confession

​The Katsina State Police Command acted swiftly following the report of the incident. Through diligent tracking and intelligence gathering, law enforcement officers were able to apprehend Aliyu Ashabu.

​During the initial interrogation, the suspect reportedly made a startling confession. Ashabu admitted to the crime, revealing a darker layer to the plot. He claimed that the attack was part of a process to prepare "charms" for an individual identified as Khalid. This accomplice, Khalid, is currently at large, and the police have launched a manhunt to bring him to justice.

​Legal Consequences and the Fight Against Ritualism

​The police have indicated that the investigation is ongoing and remains a top priority. Aliyu Ashabu is expected to face a litany of serious charges, including:

• ​Attempted Culpable Homicide: Reflecting the gravity of the attempt on the boy's life.
• ​Unlawful Juju Practices: Addressing the ritualistic nature of the crime.
• ​Cult-Related Offenses: Investigating any wider networks involved in these activities.

​This case serves as a stark reminder of the "get-rich-quick" syndrome and the dangerous superstitions that continue to fuel ritual killings in various parts of the country. Authorities are urging parents to be extra vigilant regarding their children's whereabouts and to educate them on the dangers of following strangers, regardless of the promises made.

​Community Safety and Vigilance

​The rescue of Alhassan Usman by a passerby underscores the vital role that community members play in security. In many rural areas, "community policing" starts with being observant of one's neighbors and responding to unusual activities.

​As the Katsina State Police continue their search for the second suspect, Khalid, they are calling on the public to provide any useful information that could lead to his arrest. The eradication of ritual attacks requires a collective effort between the government, law enforcement, and the general public to ensure that perpetrators find no safe haven.