We must focus on root cause – Sociologist

Dr Auwalu Kawu, an expert on Strategic Behavior Change and Risk Communication, who has also served as consultant to various local and international organisations, lent his voice to the issue.

What, in your view, is responsible for killings in Kano, especially among family members?

The reported increase in such cases may be linked to a combination of factors, including socioeconomic stress, mental health challenges, substance abuse, and broader social or cultural pressures. Rising poverty, unemployment, family tension, and lack of adequate support systems can create environments where conflicts escalate. However, it is important to emphasise that each case is unique and requires individual assessment. Broad conclusions should not be drawn without thorough investigation.

From the details available, what do you make of the recent killing of a mother and six children allegedly by a relative?

Without a comprehensive medical or psychological evaluation, it is difficult to determine whether a mental health condition played a role. Public speculation cannot replace professional diagnosis. Only detailed investigations, including expert assessments, can establish whether psychological factors were involved. Until such findings are made available, assumptions should be avoided.

What role should society play in preventing such happenings?

Society has a crucial role to play. This includes promoting mental health awareness, reducing stigma around seeking help, strengthening family and community support systems, and encouraging people to report concerning behaviors early. Community vigilance and empathy can help identify warning signs before situations escalate into tragedy.

What roles can security personnel/ agencies?

Security agencies must conduct thorough and transparent investigations and ensure justice is served in line with the law. Beyond enforcement, collaboration with mental health professionals, social workers, and community leaders is essential. Early intervention, intelligence sharing, and crisis response mechanisms can help reduce the likelihood of similar occurrences. Substance abuse can contribute to violent or irrational behavior in some cases. However, linking drug use to any specific incident requires clear evidence. Without confirmed findings from investigations, such claims remain speculative and should be treated with caution.

There are speculations about ritual elements in the act…

Speculation about ritual motives is not conclusive without concrete evidence. Such narratives can misinform the public and inflame emotions. Only findings from credible investigations should guide any conclusions regarding motive.

What do you think should be done to prevent such incidents?

To reduce the risk of similar incidents in the future, attention should be focused on addressing root causes. Key steps include expanding access to mental health services and support, encouraging community vigilance and responsible reporting, and tackling socioeconomic challenges such as poverty and unemployment. Strengthening crisis response and early-warning systems is also critical.

In conclusion, every case is unique and responsible reporting and analysis must be guided by facts, not assumptions. Addressing underlying social, economic, and mental health issues remains central to preventing future tragedies.

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