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Domestic violence: Kano community prescribes psychiatric test for couples before marriage
Mukhtar Yahaya Usman
Dan Bare community, a suburb of in Kumbotso local government area of Kano state has introduced a mandatory requirement for prospective couples to conduct psychiatric tests before they are allowed to marry.
In an exclusive interview with KANO FOCUS, Ward Head of Dan Bare (D), Saifullahi Abba Labaran said the rule became necessary in order to curb rampant cases of domestic violence that sometimes claim lives among spouses.
Mr Labaran explained that elders in the community had held extensive deliberations before finally agreeing to adopt the mental health test rule, adding that it will bring stability in the society.
Where to conduct the test
The ward head said the elders agreed that any prospective couple that intends to get married in the community would be required to undergo brain tests and other related procedures at Psychiatric Hospital Dawanau–the main mental health facility in Kano state.
‘‘We discussed the matter with the village head and other elders in the area and gave their pull support to impose it and even the village head promised to engage other ward heads,” he said.
Mr Labaran added that once couples are ready for the test, a representative from the office of the ward head would then be asked to accompany them to the hospital to ensure that the test results are genuine.
‘‘After the tests have been carried out, we will ask for three copies of each result. The first is for the groom’s family, the second is for the bride’s family and the third is for the ward head.
‘‘We choose this way because most of the time, you discover that perpetrators of domestic violence that involves killing usually test positive for mental illness. This is why it is necessary to conduct this type of test before marriage,”he said.
Price for disobedience
Asked about the penalties prescribed for those who refuse to abide by the rule, Mr Labaran warned that errant couples would be dealt with by community elders.
‘‘If someone disobeys us we will send him to our elders to deal with him as I’m not only the one who agreed to it but all elders in the community,’’ he said.
He added that Dan Bare community also resolves that suitors from outside the community must also subject themselves to the mental health tests before they can marry a woman in the area.
‘‘If an outsider comes to seek the hands of our daughters in marriage, we will force him to do the test otherwise, the marriage will not happen.
‘‘But if our community members decide to marry elsewhere, then we will not be responsible for whatever happens since it is not within our jurisdiction,” Mr Labaran explained.
Residents react
But residents of Dan Bare have expressed mixed reactions to the development.
Nura Ibrahim Shu’aib, believes that despite being a good initiative, the mental health test rule requires adequate time and awareness before it could succeed.
However, another resident Abdulbasid Tijjani said he found the development unfamiliar, adding that he was unsure if he could agree to conduct a mental health assessment before marriage.
‘‘It’s really something new to us, but after the ward head explained it in detailed to us, then I found it very interesting,” he said.
Nasiru Yusuf Ibrahim
The management of Bayero University, Kano (BUK) has commenced a preliminary investigation into allegations linking a person reportedly identified as one of its students to acts of online impersonation and financial misconduct circulating on social media.
In a statement issued by the Director of Public Affairs, Lamara Garba, on behalf of the Registrar, the university said it had taken note of the claims being discussed in public commentary and across various online platforms.
The statement noted that BUK maintains strict standards of conduct, discipline, and character for all students throughout the duration of their studies, adding that any behaviour capable of bringing the name and reputation of the institution into disrepute is treated with the utmost seriousness.
According to the university, the alleged actions of an individual student should not be seen as a reflection of the values or character of Bayero University Kano as an institution.
“In view of the allegations, the University has commenced a preliminary inquiry to ascertain the facts surrounding the matter. The appropriate University authorities are reviewing the issue in line with the institution’s established rules and disciplinary procedures governing students’ conduct,” the statement said.
The management also commended the public-spirited efforts of Professor Farooq Kperogi and other individuals who provide financial assistance to students in need, particularly by supporting registration fees and other educational expenses.
The university noted that such acts of generosity continue to play an important role in expanding access to education and supporting deserving students.
BUK assured members of the public that if the allegations are substantiated, appropriate disciplinary measures will be taken in accordance with the university’s regulations and relevant laws.
The institution also urged the public to allow the investigative process to run its course and to refrain from speculation or the spread of unverified information.
Ibrahim Khalil
The Governor of Kano State, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has relieved the State Head of Service, Alhaji Abdullahi Musa, of his appointment with immediate effect.
KANO FOCUS reports that the development was disclosed in a statement issued on Tuesday evening by the Director-General, Media and Publicity, Government House Kano, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa.
According to the statement, the decision forms part of the ongoing efforts of the current administration to reposition the state civil service for greater efficiency, discipline, and improved service delivery across government institutions.
Governor Yusuf expressed appreciation to the outgoing Head of Service for his contributions and dedication to the service of Kano State during his tenure.
“We wish him the best in his future endeavours and pray for his continued success in all aspects of life,” the governor said.
The governor also directed that Hajiya Bilkisu Shehu Maimota, Permanent Secretary, Administration and General Services at the Cabinet Office, should serve as Acting Head of Service pending the appointment of a substantive replacement.
The statement further directed the outgoing Head of Service to hand over the affairs of the office to the acting Head of Service no later than Wednesday, March 11, 2026.
Nasiru Yusuf Ibrahim
The Board Chairman of Belraados Limited and Kano State Chairman of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), Dr. Goni Faruk Umar, on Saturday met with the former President of Brazil, Mr. Michel Temer, during the opening dinner of the 26th Expodireto Cotrijal in Brazil.
KANO FOCUS reports that Dr. Umar was seen exchanging a handshake with the former Brazilian leader at the event held in Não-Me-Toque, a city in the southern part of Brazil hosting the annual international agribusiness exhibition.
The Expodireto Cotrijal is one of the largest agricultural trade fairs in Latin America, attracting policymakers, agribusiness investors, researchers and stakeholders from across the globe to discuss innovations and opportunities in the agricultural sector.
Participants at the event are expected to explore partnerships and share ideas aimed at boosting agricultural productivity and strengthening international cooperation in agribusiness.
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