Kano Authorities Probe Tragic Deaths of Two Schoolboys in Boarding School Attack

The Kano State Government and Police Command have launched a thorough investigation into the tragic deaths of two schoolboys, Hamza Tofawa and Umar Dungurawa, at the Government Boarding Secondary School, Bichi. The students, aged 19 and 18 respectively, reportedly died following a brutal assault by their senior colleagues on Sunday night.

The incident, which occurred late on July 14, 2025, also left two other students, Ibrahim Ibrahim and Aliyu M. Nasir, hospitalized with serious injuries. Preliminary reports indicate that the deceased and injured were allegedly attacked with local metal objects known as “Gwale-Gwale,” by senior students who were reportedly punishing them for an alleged offence.

Dr. Ali Makoda, the Kano State Commissioner of Education, has swiftly ordered a comprehensive probe into the circumstances leading to the deaths. Speaking through the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Bashir Muhammad, the Commissioner assured the public that the state government is committed to a fair and transparent investigation to ensure justice is served for all parties involved.

“It was reported that the brutal act followed a decision taken by some senior students to treat the deceased as punishment for allegedly committing an offence,” the Permanent Secretary stated, during a visit to the school. He cautioned students against taking the law into their own hands, urging them instead to report any concerns to the school authorities for appropriate action.

The Kano State Police Command has confirmed the incident, revealing that twelve suspects, all senior students from SS3A, SS3B, and SS3C, have been arrested in connection with the fatal assault. The school principal, Yusuf Ado Yakasai, had reported the case to the police on Monday, July 15.

The Director of the Secondary School, Kano State Senior Secondary School Management Board, Abbas Abdullahi, also expressed deep sorrow over the incident. He emphasized the imperative for students to avoid misusing their privileges and resorting to self-help.

The Kano State Government has extended its deepest condolences to the families of the deceased students, pledging to leave no stone unturned in uncovering the truth behind the tragic incident. The deaths have brought to the fore renewed concerns over safety, discipline, and the prevalence of bullying in boarding schools across the state. Investigations are ongoing, with authorities vowing to prosecute anyone found culpable according to the law.