The Bayelsa State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of a 22-year-old man identified as Godwin for allegedly stabbing his mother to death in Elebele Community, near Yenagoa, Ogbia Local Government Area. The shocking incident, which occurred in late November, only came to public attention after videos began circulating on social media this week.

The Incident

Reports indicate that neighbors were alerted to a heated struggle between Godwin and his mother on the day of the incident. When they rushed into the house, they found the woman lying in a pool of blood, and Godwin was quickly apprehended and restrained by members of the community.

According to community sources, Godwin stabbed his mother in the stomach, claiming that a “Baba” (a spiritual figure) had told him that his mother was holding back his destiny and wealth. Witnesses reported that his behavior had been erratic since his recent return from Benin City, Edo State, where he was allegedly undergoing training at a “Yahoo” (internet fraud) center, popularly known as an HK.

Strange Behavior and Warnings

Neighbors and community members had noticed a significant change in Godwin’s behavior upon his return to Elebele. He reportedly distanced himself from childhood friends and avoided regular community activities. Some residents revealed that Godwin had tried to prepare food for his mother—a gesture she reportedly refused—shortly before the tragic incident.

According to a community source, the deceased mother had been warned by a cleric to reject any gifts or unusual gestures from her son, citing spiritual dangers. However, the warning went unheeded, leading to the fatal encounter.

Community Reaction

Precious Okala, the youth president of Elebele Community, described the gruesome scene when he arrived after being alerted around 6:00 PM on the day of the incident. He recounted how the community youths had restrained Godwin before handing him over to the police.

“We were told that since the boy came back from Benin City, Edo State, he had been behaving strangely. On the fateful day, he was reported to have had a struggle with his mother and stabbed her in the stomach with a knife,” Okala said.

One community youth, who requested anonymity, added that Godwin had been increasingly isolated, claiming that a spiritual advisor had convinced him his mother was the source of his setbacks.

Police Investigation

The Bayelsa State Police Command confirmed that the suspect is now in custody. The state’s Police Public Relations Officer, Musa Mohammed, stated that the case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for a comprehensive investigation.

“The case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department for detailed investigation,” Mohammed said.

The Aftermath

The incident has left the Elebele community in shock and mourning. Friends and neighbors have expressed disbelief at the tragedy, describing the deceased mother as a kind and hardworking woman who devoted her life to raising her children.

This heartbreaking event serves as a grim reminder of the dangers of superstitions and harmful societal influences. As the investigation continues, the community hopes for justice and closure for the family of the deceased.