The Niger State Police Command has arrested a woman, Mariya Abdullahi, for allegedly administering a poisonous substance to her co-wife’s two children in Takuti community, Lapai Local Government Area.
The incident occurred on Friday, 6 November 2026, leading to the death of one child, while the other was taken to a hospital for urgent medical attention.
According to a report by Punch, the victims, aged four and nine, ingested the suspected toxic mixture after it was served to them in a cup.
Both children reportedly fell unconscious after taking the drink. They were immediately taken to a nearby health facility, where medical personnel confirmed one of them dead on arrival.
The surviving victim was transferred to a general hospital, where the child has been responding to treatment.
The spokesperson for the Niger State Police Command, Wasiu Abiodun, confirmed the development on Saturday. He stated that officers at the Lapai Police Division received the complaint at around 6:00 a.m. on the day of the incident and moved swiftly to the scene.
During preliminary questioning, the suspect reportedly stated that she poisoned the children because she had been unable to bear a child for her husband. She also told investigators that an acquaintance had encouraged her to commit the crime.
Police authorities confirmed that the suspect remains in custody and is undergoing interrogation. The command noted that she will be moved to the State Criminal Investigation Department in Minna for comprehensive investigation and subsequent prosecution.
