Gombe State Police Command has apprehended Salisu Lawan, 22, for allegedly killing his father, Usman Bello, with a pestle in Akko Local Government Area of the state.
According to ASP Mahid Mu’azu Abubakar, the command's spokesperson, Lawan allegedly struck his 65-year-old father on the head with a pestle, accusing him of witchcraft.
The spokesperson expressed concern over cases of murder linked to witchcraft beliefs, where people claim to see others in their dreams and accuse them of causing their problems, leading to fatal attacks on the alleged witches.
He cited another incident involving an old man seeking help to cross a stream, but instead being attacked by a young man wielding a plank, resulting in his death.
ASP Abubakar emphasized that such actions are not permissible under the law, urging traditional rulers and religious leaders to discourage trial by ordeal, as it is a serious offense that can lead to legal consequences.
During his parade, the suspect claimed he didn't recall attacking his father, attributing the incident to calling his father's name in his sleep. He pleaded for mercy and stated he was unaware of his actions due to his sleep from 7 am until 7:30 PM that day.
