The Village Head of Karagawal in Gombe LGA of Gombe State, Usman A. Bello, has been suspended following allegations of brutally assaulting a 15-year-old boy, Adamu Muhammad, with a machete and abandoning him in the bush.

The incident, which occurred in early December 2024, has sparked public outrage and calls for justice.

Chairman of Gombe Local Government Area, Barrister Sani A. A. Haruna, announced the suspension, stating that the action was necessary to allow a thorough investigation into the matter and ensure justice for the victim.

“We have taken responsibility for Adamu’s medical care from the outset, spending over N500,000  to ensure his recovery. This is the government’s duty, because the boy did not inflict the injuries on himself,” Barrister Haruna said.

The suspension, according to the chairman, was prompted by claims that the village head acted outside the law.

“Even if the boy committed an offence, taking the law into one’s hands is unacceptable. There are legal provisions for handling such cases, including transferring minors to juvenile homes without inflicting severe injuries and abandoning them,” he emphasised.

The village head had defended his actions, claiming self-defence after being attacked by armed youths who allegedly broke into his home at night with the intent to rob.

“I managed to seize a machete from one of them and used it to defend myself,” Bello stated.

However, the boy’s account differed significantly as Adamu Muhammad denied carrying any weapon or attempting to steal.

“I entered his house without permission, but it was the village head who attacked me with a machete, slashing me multiple times and leaving me injured,” Adamu recounted.

Barrister Haruna reiterated the need for impartiality in the ongoing investigation, cautioning against premature judgment.

“We cannot make any final decisions until we hear from the boy after his full recovery. If a hasty decision is made and unforeseen complications arise, such as a decline in the boy’s health, it could change the direction of the case entirely,” he said.

The chairman added that the village head’s suspension would enable an unbiased investigation.

“If it is confirmed that the village head acted unjustly, appropriate legal action will be taken. If the boy is found at fault, it will also be addressed within the framework of the law,” he concluded.