The Bauchi State Police Command has arrested four men for allegedly killing a farmer after accusing him of being responsible for an illness through witchcraft, in a case that has renewed concerns about mob justice and harmful superstitious beliefs.
Police identified the deceased as 45-year-old Garba Abdullahi, who was reportedly attacked while returning from his farm in Dunari Village, Atahowa District, on Tuesday morning.
According to the Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Nafiu Habib, the suspects — Shitu Dahiru, 25; Magaji Dahiru, 42; Sabi’u Auwalu, 20; and Abbah Abdulzahar, 19 — allegedly confronted Abdullahi over claims that he had spiritually caused the sickness of one Sawaida Dahiru.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the suspects attacked the farmer with machetes and other weapons, inflicting severe injuries on different parts of his body and leaving him unconscious.
The incident was reported by the victim’s younger brother at the Gadau Divisional Police Headquarters. Police operatives responded by evacuating Abdullahi to the General Hospital in Azare for emergency treatment.
However, medical personnel later confirmed him dead.
Following the attack, officers launched an investigation that led to the arrest of all four suspects. The case has since been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department for further investigation and possible prosecution.
Reacting to the incident, Bauchi State Commissioner of Police, Sani-Omolori Aliyu, condemned the killing and warned residents against taking the law into their own hands.
He stressed that allegations rooted in superstition or personal suspicion should never be used to justify violence, adding that anyone with grievances should seek redress through lawful channels rather than resorting to self-help.
The incident highlights the continued challenge posed by witchcraft accusations in some communities, where such claims occasionally trigger violence despite legal protections and public awareness campaigns. Authorities say the suspects will face the full weight of the law if found culpable.
