Kogi Teacher Maryam Usman Dies After Assault; Police Launch Probe

The Kogi State Police Command has launched an inquiry into the tragic demise of Maryam Usman, a primary school educator. Usman reportedly succumbed to injuries after being brutalized for disciplining a student within the Olamaboro Local Government Area of the state. Reports indicate that the pupil sustained an arm injury after falling during the punishment.

Following this incident, the student's father, identified as Abdullahi Ishaka, allegedly stormed Maryam Usman's residence with two women and assaulted her. Sources close to the incident informed Daily Trust that Maryam faced a second attack later the same day by additional individuals while she was on her way to the mosque.

SP Oyiza Salisu Afusat, the spokesperson for the Kogi State Police Command, confirmed these events in a statement released on Sunday, June 28, 2026. According to the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), a report of culpable homicide was filed at the Olamaboro Divisional Headquarters on June 25, 2026.

Afusat’s statement detailed, "Preliminary investigation revealed that on 18th June, 2026, one Abdullahi Ishaka, accompanied by two women, went to Brains Minds Nursery and Primary School, Ugbamaka, where they assaulted a staff member, Maryam Usman, aged 30, for disciplining a pupil.” The statement further added, "The victim sustained serious injuries and was initially treated at a hospital in Ugbamaka before being referred to Iko-Ojo Hospital, Okpo, for further medical attention. She, however, passed away on 25th June, 2026.”

The PPRO also stated that following the report, operatives from the division visited both the scene of the incident and the deceased’s home, where necessary documentation was completed. She further mentioned that arrangements were underway to transport Maryam Usman’s body to the General Hospital, Ankpa, for a comprehensive medical examination and an autopsy.

The police spokesperson revealed that the suspects had fled the scene before officers arrived, but assured the public that active efforts are being made to apprehend them. She concluded by stating, "Upon their arrest, the case will be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for discreet and comprehensive investigation.”