A Kano Magistrate Court has officially opened proceedings regarding the murder case brought by the state government against TikTok personality Fatima Abdullahi, widely recognized as Fati Cele. She is accused of killing her partner, Isma’il Sidi, also referred to as Isma’il Buzu.
Standing before Chief Magistrate Auwal Yusuf Sulaiman on Thursday, Abdullahi entered a plea of not guilty after the charges were presented. While the prosecution requested a postponement to prepare for the trial, the defense team sought bail, citing serious burn injuries on the defendant’s face and limbs that necessitate specialized treatment.
The state’s legal representatives contested this request, asserting that the magistrate court currently lacks the legal authority to grant bail for such a serious offense. Furthermore, the prosecution maintained that the prison system is equipped to provide necessary medical supervision. Consequently, the magistrate ordered that the defendant remain in detention, with instructions that she receive proper medical care at the facility. The case is scheduled to resume on July 20, 2026.
Police reports indicate that the incident followed a heated dispute between the pair. Authorities allege that Abdullahi struck Sidi with a weapon, resulting in heavy blood loss, and subsequently started a fire at the residence to conceal the evidence.
