The Kogi State Police Command has apprehended Abdulmuqeet Musari for allegedly luring his 19-year-old friend, Usman Tijani, to a burial ground, robbing him of ₦200,000, and attempting to murder him by slitting his throat. The incident occurred on December 24, 2024, in Adavi Local Government Area, Kogi State.
Tijani, a Point-of-Sale (POS) operator and a second-year Cybersecurity student at the Confluence University of Science and Technology, Osara, was found critically injured and is currently undergoing surgery at a hospital in Lokoja.
Details of the Incident
According to the victim’s family, Musari allegedly lured Tijani into a bush under the guise of friendship before robbing him and committing the heinous act. Zainab Avosuahu, a relative of the victim, described the incident as devastating, calling for justice.
“We received a shocking call from my sister on Tuesday that left us devastated. Please, this is a call for justice for my nephew, whom his friend dragged to the bush, collected ₦200,000 from, and still had his throat butchered,” Avosuahu said. She added that the victim is currently unable to provide detailed information due to his critical condition.
Efforts of Local Authorities
Musari, initially on the run, was captured through the vigilance and swift action of the local government’s security architecture. The Senior Special Assistant to the Adavi Local Government Chairman, Suleiman Acheneje, commended the collaborative efforts of vigilantes and security personnel in apprehending the suspect.
“In the late hours of December 24, 2024, unforeseen circumstances unfolded around Adavi burial ground. Usman, a 200-level Cybersecurity student, was brutally attacked by Abdulmuqeet, whose intent was no doubt to kill him,” Acheneje stated.
Acheneje confirmed that the victim was found critically injured in the early hours of Christmas Day in New Zango, Adavi Local Government Area. He was immediately rushed to Lokoja for medical attention.
Apprehension of the Suspect
Local vigilantes and security forces tracked Musari to a neighboring community in Ekiti State, where he was captured and handed over to the police.
The Kogi State Police Public Relations Officer, Williams Aya, confirmed Musari’s arrest. Aya assured the public that a thorough investigation is underway and that the suspect will be charged in court upon completion of the investigation.
“The suspect has been arrested and is currently in police custody. Investigation is ongoing, and he will be arraigned in court once it is concluded,” Aya said.
Call for Justice
The victim’s family, still reeling from the traumatic incident, has called on the authorities to ensure justice is served. As Tijani undergoes surgery and fights for his recovery, the public awaits further developments on the case.
This disturbing incident highlights the importance of trust and vigilance, even among friends, as well as the need for strong community-based security measures to prevent such tragic occurrences.
