The Kano State Government’s case against TikToker Fatima Abdullahi, popularly known as Fati Cele, over the alleged murder of her boyfriend, Isma’il Sidi (also known as Isma’il Buzu), has officially commenced at Magistrate Court No. 2 in Kano. The court, presided over by Chief Magistrate Auwal Yusuf Sulaiman, read the charge to the defendant on Thursday, to which Fatima pleaded not guilty. The case, which has drawn widespread public attention, stems from allegations that she caused the death of her boyfriend during a violent altercation and then set their house on fire to cover up the crime.
During the proceedings, the prosecution counsel, Barrister Muhammad Aliyu Umar, requested the court to adjourn the matter for further hearing. Meanwhile, Fatima’s legal team applied for bail, citing her poor health. They argued that she was suffering from severe burns on her hands, legs, and face, and required urgent medical treatment. The defense emphasized that her injuries made it necessary for her to be released on bail for proper medical care.
In response, the prosecution opposed the bail application, asserting that the magistrate court lacked the authority to grant bail in such a serious case. Barrister Umar told the court, “The court does not have the jurisdiction to grant bail in this matter, and there are medical personnel available to attend to her at the correctional facility.” The prosecution maintained that the case falls under the jurisdiction of a higher court due to its gravity and the nature of the alleged offense.
As a result, the court adjourned the case until July 20, 2026, for further consideration. The judge ordered that Fatima remain in custody but directed that she receive appropriate medical attention while in detention. The decision reflects the court’s balance between ensuring justice and safeguarding the defendant’s health.
According to police investigations, the incident occurred during a violent confrontation between Fatima and Isma’il. Authorities allege that she struck him with an object, causing severe bleeding, and then set the house ablaze to destroy evidence and hinder the investigation. The case has raised concerns about domestic violence and the use of social media influence in criminal proceedings, given Fatima’s status as a popular TikTok personality.
The ongoing legal process will likely attract continued public interest, especially as the case moves toward higher courts. The outcome may set a precedent for how similar cases involving digital influencers are handled in Nigeria’s justice system.
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