A mother of two on Tuesday killed her 11-month-old son in Ugep, Yakurr Local Government Area of Cross River State, the State Police Command confirmed.
According to reports, the suspect, identified as Blessing Eno, claimed that she was instructed to behead her baby by a spirit.
The incident left many in the community bewildered as the circumstances leading to the dastardly act has remained strange.
Confirming the incident, the state Police Command Public Relations Officer, SP Irene Ugbo, said the woman had been arrested, while also adding that operatives of the state command prevented the suspect from being lynched by the angry mob.
“I learned about the matter yesterday (Tuesday) , you know it’s a homicide case, it will be transferred from Ugep to state CID, Homicide department for further investigation.
READ ALSO: Nigeria Man Arrested In Ghana For Beheading Lover
“It is quite unfortunate and devastating, already she is in protective custody, but the matter will surely be brought to Calabar.
“Investigation is on to ascertain the reason for her action. But what we heard is that she is mentally deranged,” Ugbo said.
It was gathered that the mother of two allegedly used a machete to cut off the head of the baby.
An eyewitness who pleaded anonymity disclosed that it was her eight-year-old son who stumbled on the gory sight of his headless brother and a blood drenched mother who raised the alarm that attracted neighbours to the scene of the crime.
Reacting, the Obol Lopon of Ugep and paramount ruler of Yakurr, Obol Ofem-Ubana Eteng, has called for calm as the police investigate the matter.
“I immediately convened a meeting with my subjects because even though what happened has desecrated the land, I had to ensure that further bloodshed was averted.
“We appealed directly to young people in Ugep to tow the path of peace and rational thought in the face of this heinous crime, and they positively responded.
“We are in shock, but we are calm and have left this matter in the hands of the police. I assure you that there will be no reprisal action because we must remain law-abiding.”