The Bayelsa State Police Command has arrested 24-year-old Godspower Ebisimiagh, popularly known as “Bobby,” for the suspected ritual killing of a six-year-old boy, Muhammadu Bilah, in Yenagoa.
The incident, which occurred last Tuesday in the Aretalin area of Ovom, Yenagoa Local Government Area, has thrown the community into mourning and shock.
Police investigations revealed that the suspect is a member of the Greenlanders cult group, known for its links to violent crimes and suspected ritual killings. Reports suggest Bobby may have been contracted to deliver a child for ritual purposes.
The child, originally from Nasarawa State, was allegedly lured and killed while in the suspect’s company.
Speaking on the case, Commissioner of Police in Bayelsa State, Mr. Francis Idu, confirmed that an autopsy has been ordered to determine the cause of death. Early police findings suggest the boy may have been poisoned, as there were no clear signs of physical injuries.
While in police custody, Bobby confessed to the crime. He claimed he was under the influence of hard drugs, specifically crystal meth, locally known as “ice,” at the time.
“On that fateful day, I took ice. While eating with the boy, I suddenly stood up and smashed him on the floor,” the suspect said.
However, police sources are skeptical about this account. A senior officer questioned why the boy’s body did not show signs of trauma if he had truly been smashed to the ground. “There’s a strong possibility the child was poisoned,” the officer said.
Bobby denied claims that he was paid N1 million to carry out the killing. “I was not paid to bring the boy for ritual,” he told reporters.
The suspect, who had injuries from a mob attack before police intervention, appeared in custody with a bandaged head.
Commissioner Idu explained that the police allowed Bobby to speak publicly to clear rumours of a cover-up or death in custody.
“We are being transparent. The public deserves the truth, and we will leave no stone unturned in our investigation,” Idu said.
He also assured groups like the Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) and other human rights advocates that the case would be handled with seriousness and that justice would be done.
