Benue man confesses to killing his 18-month-old daughter because a voice told him that she was a witch

MAKURDI father Robinson Omeje has told a Benue State Magistrates Court that he killed his 18-month-old daughter Esther because a voice told him that she was a witch who possessed evil spirits.

Mr Omeje, 32, who was arraigned before a Makurdi magistrate’s court for murder yesterday, confessed to the crime saying he did it because a voice ministered to him that she was a witch. However, his plea was not taken, as the court said it lacked the jurisdiction to entertain the matter.

Magistrate Theresa Wergba, ordered that the accused be remanded in prison custody and adjourned the case until August 2, for further mention. Prosecutor, Inspector Adole Oluwa, told the court that the case was reported at the E Police Division, Makurdi, by one Doom Robinson of New Street, Joseph Catholic Church, Akpehe Makurdi on May 18.

According to Inspector Oluwa, Ms Doom stated that she came back from her shop and found Esther's lifeless body inside a rubber bucket. He explained that during police investigation, the accused person was arrested and he confessed to have strangled the girl to death, when a voice told him that she was a witch.

Inspector Oluwa said investigations into the matter were still in progress and prayed the court for an adjournment. He further said the offence contravened Section 222 of the Penal Code Law of Benue State, 2004.