The Zamfara State Hisbah Commission arrested Khadija Abdullah in Gadar Baga, Gusau, on July 15, 2026, due to allegations of engaging in witchcraft-related activities. The commission’s Public Relations Officer, Umar Haruna Tsafe, reported that the arrest arose from community complaints regarding spiritual practices occurring at Abdullah’s residence. Following these reports, the commission’s operatives conducted a raid.

During interrogation, the Director of Operations, Lawal Abubakar Maradun, stated that Abdullah confessed to using specific perfumes and claimed to be possessed by spirits. She allegedly told investigators she recited prayers into water to administer as a form of treatment. Additionally, another woman, Asiya Lawal, was present during the raid and revealed that she sought treatment for a spiritual ailment at Abdullah’s house.

Local residents reported that Abdullah’s residence had become a frequent stop for individuals seeking traditional or spiritual remedies, operating both day and night. Sheikh Umar Hassan Gusau, Chairman of the Zamfara State Hisbah Commission, mandated an intensification of investigations to verify the allegations and ensure lawful action is taken. The commission has yet to disclose whether formal charges against Abdullah have been filed as the investigation proceeds.