A 19-year-old teenager, Istifanus Bitrus, has been remanded in Adamawa State after allegedly attempting to kill a 9-year-old boy for ritual purposes. The case has sparked widespread concern about the safety of children and the persistence of ritual-related crimes in the state.
Istifanus, a resident of Garkida in Gombi Local Government Area, was arraigned before the Chief Magistrate Court sitting in Yola. Court proceedings revealed that he took the young victim, identified as Friday Musa, to a river and pushed him into the water, allegedly with the intention of using him for a money ritual sacrifice.
The prosecution told the court that Istifanus acted under the instructions of his spiritual father, who allegedly guided him in carrying out the act. He was charged with attempted culpable homicide and placed in custody while investigations continue.
Magistrate Kabiru Musa, after considering the case, ordered that Istifanus be remanded in prison. The court adjourned the matter to February 18, 2026, to allow the prosecution time to seek legal advice from the state Ministry of Justice.
Community members and child rights advocates have expressed alarm over the incident, urging authorities to intensify campaigns against ritual practices and take decisive action to protect children from such threats. Security agencies have been called upon to increase surveillance and ensure that spiritual leaders promoting such crimes are held accountable.
The case serves as a reminder of the dangers posed by ritualistic beliefs and the urgent need for public awareness, stronger law enforcement, and protection measures for vulnerable children in Adamawa State.

Comments
Post a Comment