In Nigeria, brace yourselves for another mind-boggling tale that might leave you questioning the depths of human wickedness. The Kogi State Police Command has apprehended a woman who happens to be the stepmother of an 11-year-old boy who, believe it or not, was buried alive by her 17-year-old son.
This story unfolded in Silo community, Zango Daji, Adavi Local Government Area of Kogi. It was Passers-by to the rescue on a Wednesday, when they unearthed the boy, literally, from a shallow grave in the bushes.
The alleged reason behind this sinister act? Well, it appears the young lad stole N10,000 from his stepmom, who responded with an unusual demand – she instructed her own son to punish the thief before heading to church.
The mother has been taken into custody and, quite understandably, is being questioned about her role in this disturbing incident. The police spokesman, SP Williams Ovye-Aya, had this to say: “We shall transfer the mother and son to the Criminal Investigation Department for further interrogation of reasons behind such cruelty among family members. It is unfortunate that the father or breadwinner of the family was said to have traveled. We are waiting for him to return to give us his statement. Once the investigation is concluded, we shall arraign mother and son.”
But that’s not the end of the story. The Kogi government has issued a strong statement of intent – they vow to prosecute the 17-year-old boy and his mother. Hajiya Fatima Buba, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, minced no words when she described the incident as “very wicked” and “saddening.” She assured everyone that the ministry is in constant communication with the police to ensure the swift prosecution of the two culprits.
In a rather heartening move, arrangements are in place to provide care for the 11-year-old boy in an orphanage home, considering his unfortunate circumstances. Commissioner Buba reiterated, “As a government, we will ensure that justice is served on all the perpetrators of evil acts in Kogi.” She also had a stern warning for those who subject children to inhuman treatment, urging them to desist or face the full force of the law.
It’s a disheartening incident, indeed, where a child has to endure such horrors away from the care of a mother. It’s a reminder of the biblical adage that “the heart of man is desperately wicked; who can know it.”
