Nigerian police have arrested a 25-year-old man accused of orchestrating the murder of his father in what authorities describe as a calculated, premeditated killing. A separate incident in Delta State saw a woman narrowly escape an alleged ritual attack by her son.
The Niger State Police Command confirmed the arrest of Abubakar Muhamad Buba, who is accused of masterminding the killing of his father, Alhaji Muhammad Buba, 52, at the family residence in Korokpan, Paikoro Local Government Area.
The victim was stabbed to death on October 13, following what police said was a planned attack carried out by a hired accomplice.
Abubakar was apprehended on December 29 in the Chanchaga area of Minna after weeks of investigation. Police sources said he allegedly contracted a friend, identified as Aliyu Muhamad, to carry out the killing.
Investigators allege that Abubakar paid ₦50,000 upfront and later raised an additional ₦60,000—bringing the total to ₦110,000—after selling some of his father’s personal belongings.
While Abubakar remains in police custody, the alleged hired killer is still at large. Security agencies have launched a manhunt as investigations continue.
Police described the case as part of a disturbing rise in family-related homicides across Nigeria, with several recent incidents involving close relatives accused of plotting or carrying out killings over money, property, inheritance disputes, or prolonged domestic conflicts.
Speaking to THE STAR, criminologist Aminu Kayarda of Bayero University Kano attributed the trend to worsening economic hardship, drug abuse, and a gradual erosion of family values. He urged communities to pay closer attention to warning signs such as unusual hostility, threats, and sudden financial desperation within households.
The Niger State Police Command said it is committed to ensuring all those involved are brought to justice and called on the public to provide information that could lead to the arrest of the fleeing suspect.
Delta State Woman Escapes Alleged Ritual Attack by Son
In a separate case, a Delta State woman, Mrs. Oke Eregarnoma, recounted from her hospital bed how she narrowly escaped a violent attack allegedly carried out by her son.
According to her account, her son, Emma Eregarnoma, invited her to his home on Caroline Street, Okuokoko, under the pretense of showing her a “surprise package.”
She said he appeared unusually cheerful and increased the volume of his music before suddenly locking the door, attempting to strangle her, and trying to remove her eyes.
Mrs. Eregarnoma said her screams were drowned out by the loud music. After a prolonged struggle, she managed to break free and flee outside, where neighbours intervened.
She further alleged that before the attack, her son had boasted that he “must drive GLK this week,” though the meaning of the statement remains unclear.
Emma Eregarnoma was later arrested and taken into custody at the Orerokpe Divisional Police Headquarters in Okpe Local Government Area.
Delta State Police Acting Public Relations Officer DSP Bright Edafe confirmed the incident, stating that the suspect remains in custody as investigations continue.
Police said further updates would be provided as both cases develop.
