Authorities in Bayelsa State have taken into custody a 24-year-old man identified as Godspower Ebisimiagh, widely known by the nickname “Bobby,” in connection with the shocking murder of a six-year-old boy named Muhammadu Bilah.
The tragic incident occurred in the Aretalin area of Ovom, located in Yenagoa Local Government Area. The young victim, originally from Nasarawa State, was reportedly lured by the suspect before being killed in what police believe may have been a ritual-related crime. Read more.
Investigations suggest that Bobby is affiliated with the notorious Greenlanders cult group, known for their involvement in ritual practices and violent offenses.
Police are currently pursuing leads that point to the possibility that the murder was part of a charm-making ritual allegedly intended to offer spiritual protection.
Bayelsa State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Francis Idu, has ordered a post-mortem examination to determine the precise cause of the child’s death. This move comes amid conflicting narratives surrounding how the boy was killed.
In a confession made during interrogation, the suspect claimed he was high on hard drugs, particularly crystal meth (commonly known as “ice”), at the time of the incident.
He told officers that while sharing a meal with the boy, he suddenly stood up and slammed him to the ground. Bobby sustained head injuries after a mob attacked him in anger, but police arrived in time to prevent a lynching.
Despite his confession, senior police personnel have expressed doubts about the details he provided. One officer questioned the lack of any signs of physical trauma on the child’s body. “If he truly slammed the boy to the ground, how come there’s no injury to support that claim?” the officer asked, suggesting poisoning might be a more likely cause.
When asked if he had been hired to commit the act for ritual purposes, the suspect denied being paid any money. He rejected claims that he was offered ₦1 million to procure a child for the ritual.
Commissioner Idu explained that allowing the media to speak with the suspect was a strategic decision meant to counter public speculation that he had died in custody or that the police were trying to shield him from justice.
“We want the public to know that this case is being handled with full transparency. There will be no shortcuts — we will pursue every angle until justice is served,” he assured.
The police commissioner also addressed concerns raised by advocacy groups, including the Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), promising that the Command remains committed to ensuring accountability and securing justice for the murdered child.