Police in Katsina State have arrested a 35-year-old man, identified as Aminu, for allegedly stabbing his neighbour, Mallam Masa’udu, to death during a dispute over the use of a public washing line.
The incident occurred on Thursday evening at the Ministerial Quarters near Fatima Shema Estate in Katsina metropolis.
Witnesses said both men, who operated laundry businesses in adjacent shops, got into an argument after Aminu reportedly prevented Masa’udu from using the shared washing line. The altercation escalated when Aminu allegedly threw Masa’udu’s wet clothes on the ground and stepped on them.
Efforts by other residents to calm the situation reportedly failed, as Aminu later armed himself with a knife, stormed into a nearby shop where Masa’udu had sought refuge, and stabbed him multiple times.
An eyewitness said the victim tried to flee after the first attack, but Aminu chased and stabbed him repeatedly. Masa’udu was reportedly stabbed at least seven times.
Operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) responded to the distress call and rushed the victim to a nearby private hospital, where he was confirmed dead on arrival. His remains were later deposited at the Katsina General Hospital.
Aminu was immediately apprehended and is currently in police custody as investigation continues.
Sources in the community revealed that the two men had a history of disputes, including a legal case filed by Aminu last year accusing Masa’udu of defamation and other allegations, which was later dismissed by the court for lack of evidence.
The deceased, a native of Kaita Local Government Area, was described as a long-time resident of the area and a father of six. He has since been buried in accordance with Islamic rites.
