Police arrest son for orchestrating father’s murder in Niger

By Lukman Abdulmalik

The Niger State Police Command has arrested a 25-year-old man, Abubakar Muhamad Buba, for allegedly masterminding the killing of his father, Alhaji Muhammad Buba, in what authorities describe as a premeditated act.

Our correspondent gathered that Abubakar was apprehended on December 29 in the Chanchaga area of Minna, following weeks of investigation into the death of his 52-year-old father, who was stabbed to death at his residence in Korokpan, Paikoro Local Government Area, on October 13.

According to police sources, the suspect allegedly hired a friend, identified as Aliyu Muhamad, to carry out the murder.

Investigators said Abubakar paid ₦50,000 upfront and later raised an additional ₦60,000—bringing the total to ₦110,000—after selling some of his father’s personal belongings.

While Abubakar is currently in police custody, the alleged hired killer, Aliyu Muhamad, is still at large.

Security operatives have launched a manhunt for the suspect as investigations continue.

The police said the case highlights a disturbing pattern of family-related homicides increasingly reported in different parts of the country.

In recent years, law enforcement agencies have recorded several incidents in which close relatives—often children or spouses—were accused of plotting or carrying out killings over disputes linked to money, property, inheritance, or long-standing domestic conflicts.

In an interview with Aminu Kayarda, a criminologist researcher in Bayero University Kano to THE STAR that economic hardship, drug abuse, and the erosion of family values have contributed to the rise of such violent crimes, urging communities to pay closer attention to early warning signs such as threats, unusual hostility, and sudden financial desperation within households.

The Niger State Police Command reiterated its commitment to ensuring that all those involved in the crime are brought to justice, while also calling on the public to provide useful information that could lead to the arrest of the fleeing suspect.

As the investigation unfolds, residents have expressed shock over the incident, with many calling for renewed emphasis on moral guidance, mental health support, and family mediation to prevent similar tragedies.

The police said further updates would be provided as the case progresses.