A 19-year-old teenager, Istifanus Bitrus, has been remanded in custody by an Adamawa State court for allegedly attempting to kill a 9-year-old boy for money ritual purposes. The shocking case was heard at the Chief Magistrate Court sitting in Yola.
Istifanus, a resident of Garkida in Gombi Local Government Area, is accused of taking his young victim, identified as Friday Musa, to a river and pushing him into the water. The prosecution alleged the act was carried out with the sinister intention of using the boy for a ritual sacrifice.
The defendant was arraigned on a charge of attempt to commit culpable homicide. During the proceedings, the court was informed that Istifanus allegedly acted on the instructions of his "spiritual father."
Following the arraignment, the prosecution requested an adjournment to seek legal advice from the state Ministry of Justice, a standard procedure in such serious cases.
Presiding Magistrate Kabiru Musa granted the prosecution's request. He subsequently ordered the remand of Istifanus Bitrus in a correctional facility pending further legal proceedings. The case has been adjourned to February 18 for mention and potential hearing.
The incident has sent shockwaves through the Garkida community, highlighting ongoing concerns about ritual-related crimes and the vulnerability of children. The case will proceed as the state prepares its full legal response to the grave allegations.
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