Mob Sets Suspected Ritualist Ablaze In Niger State

An angry mob has set a suspected ritualist, known simply as Sani, ablaze in Lapai town. This incident unfolded at the headquarters of Lapai Local Government Area of Niger State.

It was gathered that the suspect was arrested in the company of two young girls on Friday, August 18, around 1pm as the mob immediately set him ablaze in response to the disturbing discovery.

Abdullahi Yahaya, an eyewitness to the incident, provides a firsthand account of the events that unfolded.

“There have been several reported cases of missing children in Lapai town in the last one year. Some children were later found alive while some were killed for ritual. Residents felt that each time they caught the suspects and handed them over to security agencies, they later find them on the street after a few days. That was what prompted the mob action.”

DSP Wasiu Abiodun, the Public Relations Officer of the Niger State Police Command, who confirmed the incident said the suspect was accused of stealing a baby around the burial ground area of Lapai.

“On the receipt of the information, DPO Lapai mobilised and led a patrol team to the scene, but before the police arrived at the scene, an irate mob armed with cutlasses and other weapons had beaten the suspect to a coma and set him ablaze.

“Efforts were made to put out the fire and rescue him. Unfortunately, he was burnt beyond recognition, and the body was later evacuated to the General Hospital. Lapai.”

The police spokesperson further mentioned that the state’s Commissioner of Police has taken action by initiating an investigation into the incident with a view to arresting and bringing the perpetrators to book.

A call has been issued to the general public to desist from self-help and report incidents to the police for immediate intervention.