In a gruesome discovery, the body of a 16-year-old Almajiri was found in the bushes of Shuwarin town, Kiyawa local government area of Jigawa state. The victim was suspected to have been killed by ritualists who also forcefully plucked out his eyes.
According to reports, the victim was hacked to death on his way back home after collecting firewood from the nearby bush. The incident was reported to the police by one Malam Mustapha of Abuja quarters Shuwarin town, who had reported his student Yusuf Mustapha missing. The body of the victim was later found in a nearby bush.
Confirming the story, DSP Lawan Shiisu, the spokesperson of the state police command, stated that the police had rushed to the scene and evacuated the lifeless body, which was also confirmed to be dead by doctors at the Dutse general hospital. He added that the police are working tirelessly to track down and arrest the suspected assailants in collaboration with the public.
This incident highlights the continued vulnerability of Almajiri children in the country. Almajiri refers to a system of Islamic education in northern Nigeria where children are sent away from home to study the Quran under the tutelage of an Islamic scholar or cleric. Many of these children are often left to fend for themselves and become vulnerable to abuse, exploitation, and even ritual killings.
It is important for the government and stakeholders to address the issue of Almajiri education in the country and provide adequate protection for vulnerable children. This includes providing better access to education, healthcare, and other basic amenities.
The incident is a tragedy, and the perpetrators of this heinous crime must be brought to justice to serve as a deterrent to others who may want to engage in such barbaric acts. The police and other law enforcement agencies must continue to work together to ensure the safety of all citizens, especially vulnerable children like the Almajiri