The Bayelsa State Police Command has arrested a 24-year-old man identified as Godspower Ebisimiagh, popularly called “Bobby,” in connection with the death of a six-year-old boy, Muhammadu Bilah, in Yenagoa.
The young victim, who hailed from Nasarawa State, was reportedly lured and murdered last Tuesday in the Aretalin area of the Ovom community, located within Yenagoa Local Government Area.
According to police investigations, the suspect is a known member of the Greenlanders cult group—an organization frequently linked to violent crimes and suspected ritual-related activities. Initial findings suggest that Bobby may have been involved in a scheme to provide a child for rituals believed to offer spiritual protection.
Commissioner of Police, Francis Idu, confirmed the incident and revealed that an autopsy has been ordered to determine the exact cause of death. Authorities suspect the child may have been poisoned.
While in custody, the suspect reportedly admitted to killing the boy and claimed he was under the influence of crystal methamphetamine, commonly referred to as “ice,” at the time. According to Bobby, “I was high on ice. While eating with the boy, I suddenly stood up and slammed him on the ground.”
He was found with a head injury and blood-stained bandage after an angry mob attempted to lynch him before police intervened and took him into custody.
However, a senior officer questioned the suspect’s version of events, noting that the boy’s body did not exhibit injuries that would be expected if he had been violently thrown to the ground. “If he truly did what he claims, where are the injuries?” the officer asked, suggesting poison might have been used instead.
The suspect also refuted claims that he was paid one million naira to commit the murder. “I wasn’t hired to bring the boy for rituals,” he said.
Commissioner Idu stated that the suspect’s public statement was allowed to address speculations that he had died in custody or that the police were attempting a cover-up. He reassured the public that the investigation would be thorough and transparent.
He also pledged the Command’s full cooperation with civil society groups, including the Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) and other gender rights organizations, stressing the police’s commitment to securing justice in the case.
