By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
The lifeless body of a 33-year-old man, Amos Jatau, was discovered near the Baptist Theological Seminary School along Yakowa Way, Kaduna State, on December 31, 2024. The incident, suspected to be the result of banditry or assassination, has left the family and local community in shock.
A cousin of the deceased, who spoke to our correspondent at the family home on Nasarawa Road, U/Boro Old Market area in Sabon Tasha, Chikun Local Government Area, recounted the tragic event. According to him, Amos was on his way to the seminary for prayer when the incident occurred.
The family confirmed the news after being called to identify the body at a mortuary in U/Boro. “We received a call on the evening of December 31, 2024, asking us to come to the mortuary to confirm the identity of a body found at the Baptist Seminary. When we arrived, we recognized it was Amos Jatau,” the cousin stated.
The body was reportedly found in the seminary’s prayer area, alongside Amos’ personal belongings, including his pillow, Bible, and some clothing. Eyewitnesses and police suggested that sticks found near his body indicated he may have been beaten to death.
Amos’ remains were taken to the mortuary by seminary officials and subsequently buried on January 2, 2025.
“We are uncertain whether he was killed at the location or his body was brought there and dumped,” the cousin added. The area surrounding the seminary includes open spaces and bushes often used by individuals and groups for prayers.
The family described Amos as a gentle and devout individual, known for his kindness and reliability. “He was preparing for marriage, having completed his introduction ceremony on December 20, 2024,” the cousin explained.
Friends and neighbors echoed the sentiments, describing him as a peaceful man who avoided conflicts.
When asked if Amos had any known disputes or enemies, the family stated, “We are not aware of any issues he had with anyone. However, as humans, it’s possible someone harbored ill feelings toward him.”
The family did not rule out the possibility of bandit involvement, citing ongoing security challenges in Kaduna State. “Insecurity is a major issue here. There have been reports of attacks in Southern Kaduna, including church burnings. It’s difficult to say for certain, but we need more security presence in the area,” they said.
They appealed to the government to support the seminary’s efforts to enhance security in the vicinity, which officials have reportedly promised to improve.
Attempts to reach the Kaduna State Police Command spokesperson, DSP Mansir Hassan, for comments were unsuccessful at the time of this report.
The tragic death of Amos Jatau has sparked calls for greater security measures in Kaduna State, as the community mourns the loss of a promising young man.
