A plot to eliminate the Central Regional Minister, Isaac Edumadze through ''juju'' means backfired as the perpetrators were caught red-handed in the act. Four regional executive members of the NPP allegedly contracted the services of a Mallam, Mai Kanu, to perform the ritual to kill the Minister.

The Free Press newspaper says it all happened when the four – Muniru Arafat Nuuhu, the Municipal Chief Executive; Alhaji Jibrim, the Regional Organiser; Kamal of the Municipal Assembly and the Regional Chairman of Nasara club, all of the NPP chanced upon Kanu who was in town to visit the Muslim community.

The paper quotes a source as saying that the Mallam, being surprised by the wicked intention of his clients initially declined to offer any assistance. However, upon a second thought, the Mallam invited the four men for further discussions, probably as a trap to expose them. But the party executives, being so obsessed to carry out their nefarious act went and met the juju man.

However, their luck ran out when Mr Edumadze heard about their intention. The Minister who went to their meeting place upon a tip-off confronted them, based on which Mallam Kanu confirmed that they were discussing plans to eliminate him.

When the Minister was contacted to comment on the issue, he declined to give any comment but confirmed the story.