Elderly Woman Lynched in Bauchi Over Witchcraft Allegation—Four Arrested
The Bauchi State Police Command has confirmed the brutal killing of 70-year-old Talatu Joshua in Gobir village, Kirfi Local Government Area, over allegations of witchcraft.
Police spokesperson CSP Ahmed Wakili revealed in a statement on Wednesday that four men—Rilwanu Usman, Ali Isa, Ila Alhaji Marafa, and Jamilu Malam Usman—ambushed the elderly woman on March 2, 2025, inflicting multiple injuries, including a severe wound beneath her left ear.
She was rushed to the General Hospital in Kirfi but was later pronounced dead.
An investigation led to the arrest of the four suspects on March 8, 2025, and they are currently detained at the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) for further questioning.
According to police findings, the attack was triggered by accusations from a traditional healer, who claimed that Talatu was responsible for the illness of Ramatu Yusuf, the wife of one of the suspects.
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Acting on this claim, the suspects allegedly confronted Talatu, accused her of witchcraft, and threatened her before attacking her with sticks, leading to her death.
A petition submitted by ADA-LIGHT KWALTINGS, SAMUEL & PARTNERS alleged that officers at the Kirfi Police Division failed to arrest the suspects despite knowing their identities.
Responding to the allegation, CSP Wakili denied the claims, stating that the police followed due process and assured the public that a thorough investigation was ongoing.
“We urge residents to avoid spreading unverified information that could disrupt peace in the state,” Wakili cautioned.
The police assured that justice would be served for Talatu Joshua, emphasizing their commitment to restoring order in the community.
