The Bauchi State Police Command has arrested four men in connection with the murder of a 45-year-old farmer, Garba Abdullahi. According to the police, Abdullahi was killed after being accused of causing the illness of Sawaida Dahiru. The suspects, identified as Shitu Dahiru, 25; Magaji Dahiru, 42; Sabi’u Auwalu, 20; and Abbah Abdulzahar, 19, allegedly attacked Abdullahi while he was returning from his farm in Dunari Village, Atahowa District, Bauchi State.
The incident was reported to the Gadau Divisional Police Headquarters at about 12:35pm on Tuesday by Abdullahi's 35-year-old younger brother. The police said the suspects accused Abdullahi of being responsible for Dahiru's illness and attacked him at about 11:40am. The suspects allegedly stabbed and macheted Abdullahi on different parts of his body, leaving him unconscious.
Police operatives rushed to the scene and evacuated Abdullahi to the General Hospital, Azare, for medical attention. Unfortunately, Abdullahi was later confirmed dead by a medical doctor, and his corpse was released to his relatives for burial. The police have confirmed that all four suspects have been arrested and that the case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department, Bauchi, for further investigation and prosecution.
The Commissioner of Police, Bauchi State Command, Sani-Omolori Aliyu, has condemned the killing and warned residents against taking the law into their own hands. Aliyu expressed concern over the increasing cases of jungle justice and self-help predicated on superstitious beliefs. He emphasized that no one has the right to take the life of another under any guise.
The police command has reassured residents of its commitment to protecting lives and property and urged them to provide timely and credible information to the police. The command's Public Relations Officer, SP Nafiu Habib, disclosed the details of the incident in a statement on Wednesday. Habib identified the suspects and provided details of the incident.
The incident highlights the need for caution and vigilance in communities where superstition and jungle justice are prevalent. The police have urged residents to be aware of their surroundings and report any suspicious activities to the authorities. The suspects are currently facing prosecution, and the police are working to ensure that justice is served.
The Bauchi State Police Command is working to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. The command is committed to protecting lives and property and will continue to work with the community to achieve this goal. The police are urging residents to work with them to build a safer and more secure community.
Key points
- Four men arrested for allegedly killing a farmer over witchcraft allegations in Bauchi State, Nigeria.
- The victim, Garba Abdullahi, was accused of causing the illness of Sawaida Dahiru.
- The police have transferred the case to the State Criminal Investigation Department for further investigation and prosecution.