A shocking incident has unfolded in Ginde Village, Guma Local Government Area of Benue State, where a 17-year-old woman, Mrs. Nguemo Ikyowe, has been arrested for allegedly killing her three-year-old stepson, Vanen Ikyowe. The arrest was made by operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) following a public outcry on September 12, 2024.
According to Mrs. Larai Bitrus, the NSCDC State Commandant, the agency responded promptly to reports of the alleged murder, which included claims that Nguemo had disposed of the child’s body in a nearby river. Upon arriving at the scene, officers arrested Nguemo, who reportedly confessed to the crime during interrogation.
Following her confession, Nguemo assisted officers in locating the lifeless body of Vanen, which was subsequently recovered and taken to a mortuary in the village. The NSCDC has classified the incident as a case of culpable homicide, emphasizing that it is a serious offense against the state. Nguemo is expected to be transferred to the Nigerian Police Force for further investigation and potential prosecution.
In a statement to reporters, Nguemo revealed that she is the second wife of the victim’s father. She described a disturbing encounter while gathering firewood, claiming that a spirit compelled her to take her stepson’s life. This tragic incident has left the community in disbelief and has raised urgent questions about mental health and support systems for young families.
