Fresh details have emerged surrounding an alleged ritual attack in Adamawa State, where a 19-year-old is accused of attempting to use a nine-year-old boy for money-making rituals, sparking outrage and fear within the affected community.
According to investigators, the suspect, identified as Istifanus Bitrus, allegedly deceived the child, Friday Musa, and took him to a riverside where he reportedly pushed the boy into the water in what authorities believe was an intended human sacrifice.
Moreover, information presented to security officials indicated that the teenager claimed he was acting on instructions from a spiritual mentor, a claim that has since widened the investigation beyond the immediate incident.
Residents of Garkida, a prominent community in Gombi Local Government Area, described the episode as disturbing, noting that the victim’s survival prevented what could have been a fatal outcome.
“This is a frightening development for parents in the area,” a community source said, adding that residents are demanding tighter security and vigilance.
Furthermore, the incident has renewed concerns over the persistence of ritual-related crimes, especially those involving minors, despite repeated warnings by authorities and religious leaders.
Following the incident, the suspect was arrested and later charged with attempted culpable homicide, while the victim was reunited with his family after receiving attention.
When the matter came up before the Chief Magistrate Court in Yola, prosecutors sought time to consult the Adamawa State Ministry of Justice for legal advice, as investigations continue into the alleged ritual network.
Consequently, the court ordered the suspect to be kept in custody and fixed February 18 for further proceedings, as authorities work to unravel the full extent of the alleged ritual plot.