Darma is one of the prominent wards located within the fortified city of Katsina. This historic area traces its origins back to the era of the Habe rulers, coinciding with the construction of Katsina's city wall between 1452 and 1475. During this period, Katsina began attracting traders and artisans, which led to the establishment of Darma. The ward was named after a traditional craft practiced by its early settlers, who were renowned for their skill in creating items known as 'darma'. 

Over time, the ward saw an influx of merchants and Islamic scholars, who eventually outnumbered the original craftsmen. Among the notable scholars who settled in Darma was Malam Muhammadu Bakogayi, who migrated from Kogo in the Faskari region during the reign of the Dallazawa dynasty. His lineage includes renowned figures such as Malam Salihu Gatarin Baki, a celebrated educator during the rule of Sarkin Katsina Muhammadu Dikko (1906–1944). Some of Salihu Gatarin Baki’s descendants include Professor Mannir Mamman Darma and Abba Abu Rafin Dadi.  

Commercial Activities and Influential Traders  

Darma also became home to influential traders like Madiga Indo, a wealthy merchant who lived during the 19th century. Madiga Indo established a major slave trading hub at *Rimin Sambani* within Darma, a location that served as a convergence point for traders from diverse regions. Her business ventures extended from Katsina to major markets like Zurmi. Historical accounts indicate that she resided in Katsina from 1870 until 1906 when she relocated to Lokoja following the deposition of Sarkin Katsina Abubakar by British colonial authorities in 1905.  

Another prominent merchant from Darma was Hajiya Baika, born in 1889. She was married to Abba Saude, a successful trader and the son of Alhaji Muhammadu, a wealthy merchant from Gonja. Baika learned the art of commerce from her husband, trading items such as *daddawa* (fermented locust beans) and spices between Katsina and Gonja. Over time, she surpassed her husband in business acumen. Records show that Hajiya Baika was the second person in Katsina to purchase a car, following Abu Kyahi of Kofar Sauri. Her descendants include notable figures like Alhaji Salisu Madugu Darma, Raben Baika, Alhaji Iron Baba, and Engineer Muttaka Rabe Darma.  

Other Historical Landmarks in Darma

The ward is also known for Gidan Baraya Titimi, a historic house belonging to Baraya Titimi, originally from Kogo in the Faskari region. Sarkin Katsina Muhammadu Dikko conferred upon him the traditional title of 'Barayan Katsina'.  

Contributor: 

Alhaji Musa Gambo Kofar Soro.