Residents of Dutse, the Jigawa State capital, were gripped by fear after a decomposed body was found on Kandahar Hill, opposite the Dutse General Hospital.
Police spokesperson, SP Shi’isu Adam, who confirmed the incident on Friday, identified the deceased as 37-year-old Ado Barau, popularly known as Jojo, from Kasarau Fagoji in Dutse metropolis.
He noted that the deceased had been battling mental illness for years.
The discovery, reported to the police on September 16 around 3:45 p.m., prompted detectives from Dutse Division to visit the scene.
Owing to the advanced state of decomposition and the strong odour, the body was buried at the site with support from the local government welfare department.
Adam said the burial was conducted in the presence of the deceased’s relatives, representatives of traditional institutions, security agencies including the DSS, NSCDC, FRSC, and members of the local community.
He added that Barau’s elder brother, Rabiu Shehu, alongside community leaders, confirmed his history of mental illness and debunked rumours that body parts were missing.
The police urged residents to disregard unverified reports suggesting foul play, stressing that such speculation could fuel unnecessary panic.
Adam further assured that the Command remains committed to professionalism, transparency, and the protection of lives and property.
Earlier, rumours had spread in Dutse that the deceased’s eyes were missing, with some linking the case to the upcoming political campaign season.
Police have since dismissed the claims as false.