Zhilu village lost its leader when attackers macheted 53-year-old village head Bawa Barde on August 23, and Niger State police have detained four suspects in connection with the killing. Police said operatives from Gwada Division discovered Barde in his backyard around 7:00 am, found with multiple machete wounds, and that he was taken to a nearby hospital where he was confirmed dead.
The state police public relations officer, Wasiu Abiodun, said investigations led to the arrest of Zegi Dogari, 48, of Kabulai; Danjuma Galadima, 50, of Zhilu; Bashir Umar, 32, of Kabulai; and John Doma, 35, of Zhilu. Authorities arrested the men on August 25 and August 28 and said they will be arraigned once investigations conclude.
Police reported that the attack occurred at about 3:00 am when assailants traced Barde to his residence and inflicted the fatal injuries. During interrogation, the suspects reportedly admitted they conspired to kill the village head because they were unhappy with a ruling he made after a dispute involving Bashir and another person.
Further details disclosed to police linked family and local disputes to the killing. Danjuma Galadima is described as the deceased’s brother, while Bashir Umar is identified as a cousin. Investigators also said Zegi Dogari, described as a herbalist, was accused of having an illicit relationship with Barde’s wife; when confronted, he allegedly admitted the matter and was ordered to pay a fine of ₦700,000. The suspects told police these incidents contributed to their decision to attack the village head.
The case highlights how personal conflicts and disagreements over local matters, including grazing access and family disputes, intersect with village leadership decisions. Niger State police have said they will complete their inquiries before charging the four suspects in court.
