Hoodlums kill Niger health worker during wedding ceremony

Umar Mohammed, a health worker, was stabbed in the head at a wedding ceremony by hoodlums in Niger State

The State security agents have been battling hoodlums and other miscreants who have been causing violence in the State, especially its capital, Minna, killing and maiming innocent residents.

The incident occurred last Friday, May 17, 2024, in the Gbegenu Area of Minna when Mohammed was said to be returning from his workplace and decided to attend the wedding ceremony.

An eyewitness and resident of Gbegenu, identified as Haruna Aminu, said Mohammed had not stayed at the wedding for more than a few minutes when the hoodlums came for him with dangerous weapons.

He said, “I saw when Umar came there. He was returning from the private clinic where he worked. I cannot say whether he wanted to stay or continue his movement.

“It didn’t take long after he was there that these hoodlums, numbering over ten, began shouting at the top of their voices. They were welding dangerous weapons. Many people gave way for them while others were injured.

“Umar was attempting to leave the scene of the wedding when the hoodlum came after him, and one of them stabbed him in the head with his dagger. He immediately fell to the ground with blood coming out from his head.”

He was said to have been taken to the Minna General Hospital where he was confirmed dead by the doctors.

Wasiu Abiodun, the Niger State Police Command spokesman, has confirmed the incident and said two suspects were arrested in connection with Mohammed’s killing while others were at large.

He said, “On 17/5/2024 at about 2200hrs, it was reported at Kpakungu Div that there was a wedding ceremony at Gbeganu area, while some miscreants from the Area reportedly led by one Ukasha and others armed with dangerous weapons attacked a victim named Umar Mohammed 35yrs.

“The victim was inflicted with serious injury on the head, and he was rushed to Gen Hospital Minna, where he later gave up the ghost and was confirmed dead by the Doctor.

“The police patrol teams were drafted to the scene, and two suspects were arrested while others fled from the scene; however, effort is ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspects as the incident is under investigation,” Abiodun stated