The Bauchi State Police Command has arrested four individuals in connection with the gruesome killing of a 70-year-old woman, Mama Talatu Joshua, who was allegedly accused of witchcraft in Jinga village, Kirfi Local Government Area.
According to a statement released on Tuesday by the command’s spokesperson, CSP Ahmed Mohammed Wakil, the incident occurred on March 2, 2025, after the suspects accused the victim of causing the illness of one of their wives, based on the claims of a traditional healer.
Wakil identified the suspects as Rilwanu Usman (Chiroman Gobir), Ali Isah (Sarkin Gobir), Ila Amo (Marafan Gobir), and Jamilu Usman — all residents of Gobir village in Kirfi LGA.
The suspects reportedly confronted Mama Talatu as she was returning home from St. Benedict Catholic Church and attacked her with sticks, knives, and cutlasses, leading to her death at the scene.
A petition filed by the law firm ADA-LIGHT KWALTINGS, SAMUEL & PARTNERS on behalf of the victim’s family alleged that local police officers initially failed to take prompt action against the suspects.
The petition raised concerns over the delay in arrest and perceived negligence by officers of the Kirfi Divisional Police Headquarters.
However, the Police Command has now confirmed that the suspects were apprehended on March 8, 2025, and are currently in custody at the Criminal Investigation Department, where further investigations are ongoing.
Preliminary findings by the police revealed that the attack stemmed from a prior incident on February 28, 2025, when Ramatu Yusuf, the wife of one of the suspects, sought help from a traditional healer after falling ill.
The healer allegedly blamed Talatu for her ailment, accusing her of witchcraft.
Following this claim, the suspects allegedly confronted Talatu and threatened her life. The threats eventually escalated into the violent attack that led to her death.
While addressing the controversy surrounding the case, the police spokesperson cautioned against spreading unverified claims that could mislead the public or disrupt peace in the state.
He emphasized the commitment of the Police Command to ensure a thorough and impartial investigation.
“The Bauchi State Police Command remains dedicated to ensuring justice and maintaining public trust. We urge all parties to remain calm and allow due process to take its course,” the statement added.