Gabon is a country in Central Africa. With an area of 270,000 square km (100,000 square miles) it belongs to the group of small African countries. Its population is estimated to be less than 3 million people. Though it is considered one of the wealthiest African countries in terms of per capital income – Gabon’s nominal GDP per capita was $10,149 in 2023 – many Gabonese people live in poor conditions whereas a minority leads a life of luxury. Reportedly, the richest 20% of the population earn over 90% of the income while about a third of the Gabonese population lives in poverty.
In a recent post I already reported a rise of ritual killings in the country. An explanation is lacking. Ritual murders are not uncommon in this country. The death penalty was abolished in 2010. Recently there have been renewed calls for reinstating the capital punishment for ritual crimes. It is doubtful whether this will stop this gruesome practice. (webmaster FVDK)
Ritual Crimes: Gabon Considers Reinstating the Death Penalty
Attention: screenshot. To access the video please click here Sources : Fides/cath.ch / FSSPX Actualités Illustration : Lukasz Kobus – Wikimedia Commons / Union européenne (CC BY 4.0)
Published: January 26, 2026 By: FSSPX NEWS
Brice Oligui Nguema, President of Gabon
In Gabon, a wave of ritual crimes has once again plunged the population into terror. Faced with the horror, the head of state has reopened the debate on the reinstatement of the death penalty. The Catholic Church finds itself at a crossroads, between absolute condemnation of the barbaric crimes and its alignment with the recent positions of the magisterium regarding the death penalty.
A Resurgence That Sows Terror
Emotions are running high since the discovery of mutilated bodies, often those of children or women, deprived of vital organs. These macabre removals, intended for occult practices supposedly conferring power and wealth, are fueling a collective psychosis. The recent case of young Cameron, whose murder sparked a wave of outrage, is only the tip of the iceberg that the Association for the Fight Against Ritual Crimes (ALCR) has been denouncing for decades.
The Possible Return of Capital Punishment
Faced with popular pressure and the growing feeling of insecurity, General Oligui Nguema has taken a symbolic step. During his New Year’s address to the nation in January 2026, the head of state suggested a public consultation, or even a referendum, on the reinstatement of the death penalty, which was abolished in Gabon in 2010. For the transitional government, this is a way to respond to a thirst for immediate justice and to mark the end of impunity perceived as an admission of complicity. Supporters of the “yes” vote see this measure as the only safeguard capable of deterring the perpetrators and those who commission these bloody rituals.
The Episcopate’s Dilemma
The Gabonese Catholic Church, a historical moral force in the country, finds itself in a delicate position. While it condemns in the strongest terms what it calls the “profanation of the human being,” the Church, like most episcopates, has aligned itself with the 180-degree shift made by the Vatican on this issue. While the Catechism of the Catholic Church, published in 1992 under the reign of Pope John Paul II, still defended the legitimacy of capital punishment, Pope Francis has—almost entirely—said the exact opposite. It is a position followed so far by his successor. Thus, for the bishops, ritual crime is the expression of a “culture of death” that cannot be fought by shedding more blood. This is an idealistic position that is too “Western” in flavor for many Africans, and one that the Church risks creating a misunderstanding.
The Gabonese prelates prefer to encourage the authorities to address the root causes of the problem, which they have, moreover, identified very well: the corruption of the judicial system, the poverty that makes the population vulnerable, and especially the influence of esoteric sects within the administration.
For a Stronger Church
The ALCR, for its part, emphasizes that, in the past, sentences of life imprisonment have not been sufficient to stem the tide of this scourge, due to a lack of strict application of the law and protection of witnesses.
The fight against ritual crimes demands immediate, exemplary punishments and requires a rehabilitation of moral values as well as a radical reform of the state apparatus so that every citizen feels protected by the law, and not by perverted ancestral rituals. To achieve this, the Church will need to rediscover a powerful doctrine and voice, which the era inaugurated at Vatican II has not helped strengthen.
Since starting this website on ritual murders in Africa I have published more than one post on ritual crimes in Gabon, a small country situated on the Atlantic Coast, though not much is known about the frequency of murders for ritualistic purposes in this Central African country with an estimated population of less than 3 million people.
The oldest case of murder for ritualistic purposes mentioned on this site dates from 2005, and may have been linked to elections in the country. See my August 17, 2018 post, Gabon election raises fears of ritual killings. Unfortunately, Gabon thus lists among a large group of African countries where elections are accompanied by a surge in ritualistic murders. My August 16, 2018 post entitled Gabon senator arrested in ritual killing case, referring to a 2013 ritual murder case, also draws attention to the criminal practices of ambitious politicians, eager to obtain or maintain wealthy and prestigious positions. The year 2013 was a notorious year for ritualistic murders in Gabon, see my November 23, 2023 post, Anger rises in Gabon after rash of ritual killings.
Hence the reported wave of ritual murders which incites the government of President Oligui to consider reinstating the death penalty for ritual crimes is not a new phenomenon in the country. Then why now this cry for the reinstatement of the capital punishment?
Faced with alarm over ritual murders, Gabon’s President Brice Oligui Nguemaasks the population whether they want the death penalty reintroduced
Published: January 9, 2026 By: Agenzia Fides – Gabon
Libreville (Agenzia Fides) –Citizens will decide whether the death penalty will be imposed for so-called “ritual murders.” This was announced by the President of Gabon, Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, in his New Year’s address on January 2. The death penalty was abolished in Gabon in 2010, but in light of the social unrest triggered by the increase in so-called “ritual murders,” President Nguema stated that he wants to consult the population on whether to reintroduce the death penalty to punish those who commit such acts. “This decision must be made by the people who elected me,” he declared.
The Gabonese population was shocked by the case of Pascal Cameron Ngueba Loko, a 13-year-old boy who disappeared on December 17 and whose body was found on December 22 in a septic tank near his home. One of the four suspects arrested by police confessed to killing the boy for fetishistic purposes on the orders of an as-yet-unknown instigator.
Remarkably, according to the coroner, the boy’s body showed no signs of organ removal.
Ritual killings have a long history in Gabon, so much so that there is even an association dedicated to combating ritual crimes, which organized a protest march in 2013.
Those who commission these brutal acts seek to gain material advantages through “magical” practices involving the mutilation of young victims’ bodies.
The Catholic bishops have intervened on several occasions to counteract these practices. On December 28, 2025, the Gabonese Bishops’ Conference celebrated the conclusion of its Jubilee and the National Day for Combating All Forms of Violence and Attacks on Life in Oyem. In his homily, the President of the Bishops’ Conference and Bishop of Oyem, Jean Vincent Ondo Éyéne, condemned these “barbaric” acts and called on the security forces to fully embrace their responsibility in order to restore the public’s trust.
“My heart is filled with sorrow for the ritual murders that are staining our beloved country with blood,” said the Bishop of Oyem. “I think of those who have been taken from life, whose bodies have been desecrated, and whose innocence has been broken,” he continued, referring in particular to the murder of Pascal Cameron Loko and to numerous other victims whose crimes go unpunished.
The President of the Gabonese Bishops’ Conference entrusted the souls of the innocent victims to God and prayed for eternal rest for them and comfort for their families. He also remembered the survivors, who are forever scarred by this violence, and prayed for their physical and spiritual healing. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides, 9/1/2025)
Child sacrifice is – sadly – a widespread phenomenon in Uganda which even has led to a special Wikipedia page.
On the present site I have posted numerous cases of children murdered for ritualistic purposes – while not pretending to have covered all ritual murders involving children since 2018. (Please note that I only started this site in 2018.)
The latest reported chid sacrifice took the life of a four-year-old girl, Trinah Ainomugisha. She was the daughter of Vincent Bagarukayo and Catherine Nyakato, residents of Kanyara village, Kikondo ward in Kabujogera Town Council. Her father, Vincent Bagarukayo, expressed his sorrow, he called for justice and shocked the public stating that “I have now lost two children under similar circumstances. One of my children went missing, and despite reporting to the police, he has never been found. I strongly suspect the same person behind Trinah’s murder could have kidnapped my son as well.”
Police arrested four persons suspected of involvement in the brutal murder of Trinah Ainomugisha. The prime suspect is an elected official, Kitagwenda District Councilor for Persons with Disabilities Levi Amarakutunga.
Kitagwenda District is a district in Western Uganda. Kitagwenda District is part of the Tooro Kingdom, one of the ancient traditional monarchies in Uganda.
Read more details in the three articles presented below.
NB It may be superfluous but the reader is reminded that no person is guilty unless found guilty by an independent court during a public trial. (FVDK)
Kitagwenda District Councilor for Persons with Disabilities Levi Amarakutunga – the prime suspect in the murder of four-year-old Trinah Ainomugisha.
Kitagwenda Councilor, Three Others Arrested Over Child Sacrifice Allegations
Published: March 18, 2025 By: Ivan Mugisha – Nile Post, Uganda
Kitagwenda District Police Commander Bashir Bakulumpangi said the incident began on Sunday evening when Trinah’s mother sent her to deliver Shs10,000 to a person who had requested it.
Security operatives in Kitagwenda district have arrested four individuals, including a district councilor, in connection with the killing of a four-year-old girl in what is suspected to be a ritual sacrifice.
The suspects include Levi Amarakutunga, a district councilor representing persons with disabilities in Kitagwenda district, and three of his workers whose identities police have not disclosed.
The deceased, Trinah Ainomugisha, was the daughter of Vincent Bagarukayo and Catherine Nyakato, residents of Kanyara village, Kikondo ward in Kabujogera Town Council.
Kitagwenda District Police Commander Bashir Bakulumpangi said the incident began on Sunday evening when Trinah’s mother sent her to deliver Shs10,000 to a person who had requested it.
The girl did not return, prompting her mother to alert the area chairperson, who mobilized a search party. Their efforts proved futile.
On Monday morning, Nyakato reported the matter to Kabujogera Town Council Police Post, and the case was escalated to Kitagwenda Central Police Station, which deployed a canine unit.
The sniffer dog led officers to Nyakagezi cell, where they found the girl’s body in a farm.
“The body had a deep cut on the neck, a sign that the child may have been brutally sacrificed,” Bakulumpangi said.
The sniffer dog then led investigators to Amarakutunga’s residence, where officers reportedly found blood-stained evidence. This led to the arrest of Amarakutunga and his three workers.
Upon hearing the news, enraged residents stormed Amarakutunga’s farm, destroying his banana plantation and cutting four of his cows.
Police intervened to prevent further destruction.
“We understand the community’s anger, but we urge them to remain calm and allow investigations to proceed,” Bakulumpangi said.
Authorities say a thorough investigation is underway to determine the exact cause of Trinah’s death and whether it was indeed a case of ritual sacrifice.
“We are gathering all necessary evidence to ensure justice is served,” Bakulumpangi said.
The suspects remain in custody as investigations continue.
Kitagwenda Residents Demand Justice for Murdered 4-Year-Old Girl
Published: March 18, 2025 By: Ivan Mugisha – Nile Post, Uganda
During an emotionally charged burial in Kikondo Parish, Kabujogera Town Council, the child’s father, Vincent Bagarukayo, expressed his devastation and called for swift investigations.
Parents and residents of Kitagwenda District are demanding justice for Trinah Ainomugisha, a four-year-old girl allegedly murdered by individuals including Levi Amarakutunga, the district council representative for persons with disabilities, and his three workers.
During an emotionally charged burial in Kikondo Parish, Kabujogera Town Council, the child’s father, Vincent Bagarukayo, expressed his devastation and called for swift investigations.
“I have now lost two children under similar circumstances. One of my children went missing, and despite reporting to the police, he has never been found. I strongly suspect the same person behind Trinah’s murder could have kidnapped my son as well,” Bagarukayo lamented.
Mary Mugizi, the Kabujogera Town Council female councilor and one of the eyewitnesses during the police search, revealed that bloodstains and a basin filled with blood were found inside Amarakutunga’s house.
“This is overwhelming evidence that should pin the suspect. We demand that security agencies ensure justice is served to the bereaved family,” Mugizi stated.
Doreen Kaita, the female district councilor of Kabujogera, condemned the brutal killing and urged leaders to work together to prevent such crimes.
“This is a barbaric act that should never happen in our community. As leaders, we must fight against such evil and ensure our people are safe,” Kaita emphasized.
Ronald Nsabumukiza, the Officer in Charge at Kitagwenda Central Police Station, who attended the burial, assured the public that investigations were ongoing.
“We understand the pain and anger of the residents, but we urge them to remain calm and avoid taking the law into their own hands. Justice will be served,” Nsabumukiza assured.
All the suspects, including Amarakutunga, remain in police custody at Kitagwenda Central Police Station as authorities continue gathering evidence.
Ainomugisha was allegedly murdered on Saturday in what is suspected to have been a ritual sacrifice. Her body was discovered in a nearby farm.
The tragic incident has left the community in shock, with residents and local leaders calling for stronger measures to protect children. As the investigation unfolds, the people of Kitagwenda remain united in their demand for justice.
More Allegations Emerge Against Kitagwenda Councilor in 4-Year-Old’s Murder Case
Kitagwenda District Councilor Levi Amarakutunga
Published: March 20, 2025 By: Ivan Mugisha – Nile Post, Uganda
Community members have accused Amarakutunga of sexual abuse and coercion. One victim, who spoke on condition of anonymity, recounted a harrowing encounter with Amarakutunga.
New disturbing allegations have emerged against Levi Amarakutunga, the Kitagwenda District Councillor for Persons with Disabilities, who is the prime suspect in the murder of four-year-old Trinah Ainomugisha.
Community members have accused Amarakutunga of sexual abuse and coercion. One victim, who spoke on condition of anonymity, recounted a harrowing encounter with Amarakutunga.
“He found me on the road one evening and offered me a lift. After I got into his car, he started touching my belly and moustache while sticking out his tongue. I was terrified,” he said.
The victim said Amarakutunga later drove him to his home, locked the car doors, and continued making inappropriate advances.
“He touched my private parts, and I panicked. Just then, my friend called me for our usual drinking spree. Amarakutunga overheard the conversation, and I used the chance to break the window, forcing him to open the door. He warned me not to tell anyone,” the victim said.
Another alleged victim claimed he was taken to Amarakutunga’s home in Nyabihoko Parish, Buhanda Sub-county, after being told he would receive prayers for wealth.
However, he said the councillor attempted to coerce him into sexual acts.
“He tried to convince me, but I resisted. When I told him to stop, we disagreed. He then warned me never to speak about what had happened,” the victim said.
Kabujogera councillor Innocent Kizza confirmed that similar reports about Amarakutunga had circulated in the community.
“Many victims have remained silent out of fear,” Kizza said.
Kitagwenda Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Nicholas Nuwagira also acknowledged awareness of the accusations. “We have heard the claims and are investigating the matter,” he said.
Amarakutunga and three of his workers were arrested on Monday in connection with the suspected ritual murder of Ainomugisha.
They are being held at Kitagwenda Central Police Station as investigations continue.
The allegations come amid Uganda’s strict Anti-Homosexuality Act, signed into law by President Museveni in May 2023. The law imposes life imprisonment for same-sex relations and the death penalty for “aggravated homosexuality,” which includes sexual abuse involving minors, disabled persons, or acts committed under coercion.
Once a celebrated gospel singer known for songs like Abyeitu nibikorwa Mukama and Nyentsya Yaawe, as well as a director at Nyabihoko Parents Primary School, Amarakutunga’s reputation has been tainted by these grave accusations.
As police continue their investigations, the people of Kitagwenda await justice for Ainomugisha and those who claim to have suffered at Amarakutunga’s hands.
To the already long list of Nigerian States which have allowed the death penalty as ultimate sanction for ritual killers – see my March 6 post – we should add Ogun State. The following article is chrystal clear: people are fed up with the terrorism of unscrupulous ritualists, cultists, kidnappers, armed robbers, etc.
The author of the article presented below, Eli Jah Udofia, writes that “Since the return to democratic rule in Nigeria about 26 years ago, it is on record that no Nigerian governor has signed and ordered the execution of condemned criminals despite being empowered by the nation’s constitution.” He continues, with (quote) “Refusal or unwillingness to sign execution orders have no doubt contributed to the high rise of heinous crimes that most often led to loss of lives because in a situation where the Biblical “an eye for an eye” injunction is not followed to the letter and where justice is not seen to have been served, it emboldens criminals to commit more heinous crimes, “after all nothing go happen”. Unquote
The capital punishment as deterrent or as revenge?
Whatever the answer to this question, I – personally – am not convinced that the execution of condemned ritual murderers will significantly decrease the number of murders for ritual purposes (‘money ritual’) in Nigeria.
What is needed is an educational campaign aimed at eradicating superstition, in combination with the rule of law, respecting international agreements and human rights. (webmaster FVDK)
Background information:
Ogun State is located in the South West geopolitical zone of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (Nigeria is divided into six geopolitical zones commonly called zones). With a surface area of 16,762 km2 Ogun State ranks 24th (out of 36 states) and with a population of about 7 million people in 2024 it occupies the 13th position.
Published: March 11, 2025 By: Eli Jah Udofia – Independent, Nigeria
There is no doubt that killings and acts of killings have become the order of the day in Nigeria. Apart from death in the hands of terrorists, the lives of Nigerians are daily been cut short by ritualists, cultists, kidnappers, armed robbers, etc.
From the North to the South, East to West, it is one killing after the other. It is either husband killing his wife or the wife killing her husband; father killing his daughter or son killing his mother. It so appalling that one begins to wonder when the country became a jungle, where life is so cheap. Even in the jungle, animals do not kill each other for the fun of it except for food and defending territories.
In Nigeria today, killing has become a hobby or a pass time for some people. While ritualists kill and harvest body parts for money making rituals, some kill to take possession of the deceased property. Others, like cultists, carry out revenge killing or kill to show superiority while others kill for ransom.
About two years ago, the media, both traditional and new, was awash with the story of how a boy who resides in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, connived with his friends, killed his girl-friend and used the head for money ritual purposes after disposing the body by burning. Sometimes one begins to wonder the benefits of these senseless killings or is it that humans have lost their humanity?
Also in Ogun State, in the middle of last year, three Indians and a Nigerian were kidnapped along the Ijebu- Ode-Ore road but were lucky to be rescued by men of the Nigeria Police. Similarly, not too long ago, the wife of Retd. Assistant Inspector General of Police, Mrs. Folasade Odumosu, was kidnapped on her way to work and the sum of N40m demanded for her release.
Apart from kidnapping, cult related killings are also rampant in places like Abeokuta, the State capital, Sagamu and Ijebu-Ode. Cultists reign of terror saw the killings of rival members and sometimes cut short the lives of innocent people.
The question now is, when did Nigeria and Nigerians descend to this abysmal low in morality? Can this be attributed to exposure to modernity, technology or influence of social Media? What really went wrong in the past few decades that people no longer regards life as sacred?
Though the Nigeria’s legal system is noted for undue and prolong delays in delivering justice, it has also made some landmark judgements especially in cases involving murders and the likes by passing death sentences on those who took other people’s lives.
On the third of February, 2025, an Ogun State High Court sitting in Abeokuta, sentenced he trio of Lekan Adekanbi, Ahmed Odetola, and Waheed Adeniyi to death by hanging for the murder of Kehinde Fatinoye, his wife, Bukola Fatinoye, and their son, Oreoluwa, on January 1, 2023.
The Fatinoyes were attacked at their Ibara GRA residence shortly after returning from a crossover church service. Led by their driver, Adekanbi, the assailants broke into the home around 2 am, murdered the couple and set both their bodies and the house on fire.
Not done, the attackers also tied up their son, Oreoluwa, along with an adopted son, before throwing them into the Ogun River. While Oreoluwa unfortunately lost his life, the adopted son miraculously survived.
After their arrest by the police, Adekanbi, in an interview with journalists, admitted spearheading the attack, citing his employers’ refusal to increase his salary or grant him a loan request.
Many Nigerians observed with dismay that death row inmates remain in prisons for years, living off taxpayers’ money after the death sentence had been passed on them. Concerns have also arisen over the government reluctance to sign execution orders—a trend that has left many death row inmates languishing in correctional facilities indefinitely.
Since the return to democratic rule in Nigeria about 26 years ago, it is on record that no Nigerian governor has signed and ordered the execution of condemned criminals despite being empowered by the nation’s constitution. This act is quite contrary to what obtained during the military era where Military Administrators or Governors approved execution once the death sentence was pronounced by competent Courts.
Refusal or unwillingness to sign execution orders have no doubt contributed to the high rise of heinous crimes that most often led to loss of lives because in a situation where the Biblical “an eye for an eye” injunction is not followed to the letter and where justice is not seen to have been served, it emboldens criminals to commit more heinous crimes, “after all nothing go happen”.
Disturbed by this ugly trend and the need to eradicate incidences of violent crimes like kidnapping, cultism, ritual killings and the likes as well as ensure that victims of these crimes get justice, the State government is considering a drastic action by looking at the death penalty option through signing Death Warrants of those sentenced to death by competent Courts.
The State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Oluwasina Ogungbade (SAN), gave this indication and expressed concern on the increase in criminal activities in recent times in the State.
According to Mr. Ogungbade, government is ready to take the bull by the horns by implementing the law by signing the Death Warrants.
He observed that despite the proactive measures put in place by security agencies in tackling crimes, there appears to be an upsurge particularly in ritual killings, adding that government has identified the wrong perception that there will be no repercussions when some of these crimes are committed to be the root cause.
“I can tell you that we are looking seriously at this as a means of sending across a message that Ogun State is not a place where you can come and commit such serious crimes and get away with it.
“It is part of the duty of the governor to sign Death Warrants and I am certain that when he took that oath of office, he took it knowing full well the responsibilities that come with it and he is a governor that uphold the rule of law so I can assure that in deserving cases, he will not shirk away from that constitutional duty.”
Ogungbade believes that if somebody has gone through the process of fair trial, made use of all his appeals, then “we will begin to look seriously at implementing those judgements hoping that it will serve as a deterrent to those who still intend on carrying out such crimes. But in doing so, I can assure you that we will be systematic about it, we will not be reckless about it.”
From time immemorial, society has always found a way of dispensing justice and death penalty has always been a way of ensuring that those who commit serious crimes especially the ones that involve human lives pay dearly for them.
It is often said that “drastic situation requires drastic solution” and since criminals have decided not to heed several warnings of Governor Dapo Abiodun, who on many occasions, advised them to turn a new leaf, then it is time for them to begin to face the hangmen’s noose.
In previous posts I’ve reported on death sentences pronounced in Nigerian states. In Delta State (2024), Niger State (2024), Rivers State (2020), Osun State (2020), Ondo State (2019), to be more specific. Shortly, more states may follow, as the following article implies. The increase in ritualistic murders has led the population in Kaduna, Kano and Katsina states to press their governments to allow for the death penalty for ritualists and those found selling or eating human parts, according to the article cited below.
As mentioned before on this site, Nigeria is a signatory to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, adopted by the UN in 1948. National and international organizations emphasize that the death penalty breaches human rights including the right to life and the right to live free from torture or cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment. Both rights are protected under the 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights,
The surge in criminal killings for ritualistic purposes, human sacrifices, child trafficking, and various sorts of witchcraft activities in a number of SSA countries have resulted in an increasing number of countries adopting laws allowing for the death penalty for convicted criminals. In Nigeria a number of states have adopted legislation allowing the sentencing to death of convicted ritual murderers which does not always mean that they are actually executed.
Though I strongly support the prosecution of suspected ritual murderers and the rule of law, I have my doubt about the effectiveness of the capital punishment as a deterrent. The phenomenons of ritualistic murders and witchcraft are too complicated to eradicate by only harsh punishments. I can cite many examples, in various countries – to name one: Liberia.
I witnessed the public execution by hanging of seven convicted ritualistic murderers, in Harper, Maryland County, almost fifty years ago, in 1979.
Did this eradicate ritual murders in Liberia? No. Did this eradicate the belief in witchcraft in Liberia: No. Did this eradicate superstition in Liberia? No.
Hanging of the Harper Seven, Liberia, February 16, 1979. Source: F. van der Kraaij Collection Wikimedia.
In my opinion only education will bring the desired result, in combination with the strict rule of law, not allowing any exception, political interference of ‘big shots’: political, religious or traditional leaders, resulting in a shameful impunity. All what is needed is the political will to end these cruel outdated and criminal practices and atrocities. They have no place in the 21st century. (webmaster FVDK)
Kaduna, Kano, Katsina residents seek death sentence for ritualists, cannibals
Published: March 3, 2025 By: Agency Report – Daily Nigerian
There have been growing concerns about the obnoxious increasing trend of of ritual killings across Nigeria.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the heightened situation of ritual killings is driven by the quest for quick wealth, poverty, unemployment, and lack of effective legislation.
There have also been sustained calls for stronger laws against ritual killings to effectively stem the tide of the menace.
There have also been appeals for plausible economic empowerment programmes and public awareness campaigns to deal with the dastardly phenomenon.
Analysts have posited that the government, civil society, and individuals must work together to address the underlying factors and put an end to these heinous crimes.
In Katsina State, the residents of have urged the government to provide a death sentence against ritualists and those found selling or eating human parts.
They made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)in Katsina.
The residents said the call has become imperative in view of the increasing cases of ritual killings, particularly in some parts of the country.
Ayuba Inusa, a resident of Katsina, said that was the only way to prevent the people from joining the ritual and cult groups.
He said: “Since the perpetrators have no mercy, they deserve to be treated with no mercy, to serve as a deterrent to those willing to join the groups.”
Inusa further stressed the need for the traditional and religious leaders to intensify efforts in preaching against the ugly act.
On his part, Kabir Tukur, advised the people against the desire to accumulate worldly materials using such inhumane and ugly methods.
He said,”That is because most of the victims were those who want to accumulate material things easily and anyhow.”
Tukur further urged parents to be monitoring their sons and daughters and discourage them against such bad habits to prevent them from becoming victims of such circumstances.
He also urged girls and women to be wary of friendship in the social media, saying, “because, most of the victims were easily caught up through that platform.”
Another correspondent, Grace Jacob, also urged girls to desist from going to the persons they met through the social media to avoid becoming victims.
She further urged the government to provide stiffer punishments against perpetrators of those barbaric acts. In Kaduna State, the Police Command said it has recorded zero ritual killing in the state.
The command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Mansir Hassan, confirmed to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Kaduna.
He said, “This remarkable achievement is a testament to the state’s unwavering commitment to combating this heinous crime.
He said the command has not received a single complaint of ritual killing in the past three years.
According to him, the ways to curb this incident include stopping hard drugs’ abuse, public enlightenment, and addressing youth motivations.
“The command’s proactive approach to preventing ritual killings has included increased patrols, intelligence gathering, and community engagement,”Hassan said.
He advised that the youths should be engaged with the local communities to raise awareness about the dangers of ritual killings.
Hassan said, “Religious leaders have a role to play in educating the public about the importance of upholding human life and the sanctity of human dignity.”
He said the youths should be engaged on education and job creation programmes, as well as counseling services to address anxiety and other mental health issues.
“We will continue to prioritise the safety and security of citizens,” Hassan said.
In Kano State, some experts have called on community leaders to collaborate in efforts to combat ritual killings, urging action to address the underlying factors driving the crime.
Some of the residents, who spoke to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) urged the government at all levels to address the crime.
One of them, Musa Abubakar, a lecturer at the Kano State Polytechnic, attributed the increasing frequency of ritual killings to economic hardship and widespread poverty.
According to Abubakar, these challenges have driven many, especially young people, to seek alternative, albeit criminal, means of wealth acquisition.
He said that the high unemployment rate has led to increased desperation, with some individuals believing that ritual sacrifices may offer a shortcut to financial success.
Abubakar said: “Moral decay is on the rise. If this decay is not addressed, it could lead to an increase in other forms of criminality.
“They include human trafficking, organ harvesting, and cult-related violence, further destabilising the nation.$ A public affairs commentator, Isa Muhammad, stressed the importance of collaboration between the security agencies and community leaders to curb these crimes.
“Community policing initiatives should be expanded to encourage local participation in crime detection and reporting.
” Vigilance groups should also be involved in monitoring suspicious activities,” he said.
Isa further emphasised that traditional and religious leaders must take a strong stance against immoral practices, while educational institutions should enforce ethics that all.the students must adhere to.
Similarly , Abdulrazak Abdullahi, a Lawyer, expressed concern over the growing incidents of ritual killings, highlighting a shift in values where human life was no longer sacred.
“The increasing prevalence of ritual killings suggests a dangerous shift in societal values, with people willing to engage in barbaric acts for personal gains,” Abdullahi said,
He urged the law enforcement agencies to act proactively rather than only responding after crimes have been committed.
Abubakar then called for closer cooperation between the Police, judiciary, intelligence agencies, and community leaders to dismantle criminal syndicates behind these killings.
“The government should strengthen legal frameworks, improve law enforcement, and ensure the swift prosecution of offenders,” he added.
An activist, Amina Ali, also called for the intensification it public awareness campaigns and the enactment of stricter laws to create a safer and more secure society.
She stated that the high unemployment had fueled desperation, with some resorting to ritual sacrifices as a shortcut to wealth.
Ali warned, “If the growing moral decay is not addressed, it could lead to increased criminal activities, including human trafficking, organ harvesting, and cult-related violence, further destabilising the nation.” (NAN)
A campaigner against ritual killing, Mr Sunday Oyinloye, has advocated death penalty for perpetrators of the act. He told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) yesterday in Abuja that the increasing cases of ritual killings had become a source of worry.
Oyinloye, who blamed the development on the decay in family values, laziness and desire to get rich at all cost, said death penalty would be a great deterent.
The campaigner said society, schools, families, religious bodies and government were not doing enough to address the vice.
Oyinloye called for more engagements on ritual killings in the country, adding that the seeming nonchalance about the menace over time was part of the reasons for its increased rate.
He said: “As it is now, there is no conversation about ritual killings and we keep having cases on daily basis.
“Relevant stakeholders must rise up against this menace and speak out against this ugly trend where women and young girls are often the victims.”
Warning: The following articles may upset readers because of the graphic contents (webmaster FVDK).
The surge in murders for ritualistic purposes and related witchcraft activities in certain SSA countries has led to an increasing cry for the restoration of the death penalty for convicted ritual killers. In recent years, several African countries have resorted to the (sometimes) re-introduction of capital punishment in an attempt to stop these criminal and outdated traditional practices. In Nigeria a number of states have adopted legislation allowing the sentencing to death of convicted ritual murderers which does not always mean that they are actually executed.
National and international organizations like Amnesty International emphasize that the death penalty breaches human rights including the right to life and the right to live free from torture or cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment. Both rights are protected under the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, adopted by the UN in 1948. Nigeria is a signatory to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
Please note: the link which leads to the Punch article reproduced below also mentions three other cases of ritualistic killings (‘money rituals’) in Nigeria: two in Anambra State (including a suspected case of ritual killing) and one in Ogun State. Though a coincidence it illustrates well that ‘money rituals’ are rampant in Africa’s most populated country. (webmaster FVDK)
Nigeria: Delta court sentences man to death for killing twins for rituals
Published: July 16, 2024 By: Matthew Ochei – Punch, Nigeria
A High Court sitting at Asaba, the Delta State capital, has sentenced one Onuwa Ijie to death, and Nwanozie Uzor to 14 years imprisonment for murder and conspiracy to commit the murder of twin boys, Chidalu and Chigozie Agwunobi.
The court presided over by Justice Onome Marshal-Umukoro sentenced two convicts over the murder of the seven-year-old boys.
The prosecution conducted by a Deputy Director in the Ministry of Justice, Mrs Paula Akpoguma, in proof of the case called five witnesses.
The court held that the testimony of the five witnesses proved the case against the two defendants beyond reasonable doubt.
The prosecution stated that tragedy struck the family of Olise Agwunobi of Oko-Ogbele Community on March 5, 2020, when their seven-year-old twin boys were lured by the defendants to a bush and they proceeded to cut off their penis, eyes, tongues and hands which they hurriedly took to a native doctor at Aguleri in Anambra State.
“One of the defendants had earlier gone to the school of the twin children to take them but was turned down by the school teacher, one Mrs Emelda Ezekwude,” she said.
Delivering his judgment, Justice Marshal-Umukoro stated that after carefully evaluating the evidence presented before him, the prosecution had discharged the burden of proof as the first defendant from his confessional statement was the person who sowed the seed of committing human rituals in the mind of the second defendant by giving the phone number of one Chukwudi Edemuzor who was alleged to be searching for twins to kill for money.
The court maintained that the law is settled that the testimony of an investigating police officer was not hearsay evidence, and the court can rely on it.
Speaking with journalists after the judgment on Tuesday, the prosecuting counsel, Akpoguma thanked the court for upholding the cause of justice, “reaffirming that the judicial system works.”
The suspect and his accomplice were said to have murdered the twin boys for ritual purposes.
Justice Onome Marshal Umukoro of a High Court in Asaba, Delta State Capital, has sentenced Onuwa Ijie to death and his accomplice, Nwanozie Uzor, to 14 years imprisonment for the murder and conspiracy to murder twin boys, Chidalu and Chigozie Agwunobi.
The sentencing came after the court heard the case against the two men for the murder of the seven-year-old boys.
Deputy Director in the Ministry of Justice, Paula Akpoguma, led the prosecution, presenting five witnesses to support the case.
A sixth witness, 15-year-old Iweka Ajie, the younger brother of one of the defendants, initially agreed to testify via video link but ultimately refused out of fear.
The court determined that the testimony of the five witnesses sufficiently proved the case against the defendants beyond a reasonable doubt.
According to the prosecution, on March 5, 2020, the family of Olise Agwunobi of Oko-Ogbele Community suffered a tragedy when their seven-year-old twin boys were lured to a bush by the defendants.
There, the boys were mutilated, and their body parts were taken to a native doctor in Aguleri, Anambra State.
“One of the defendants had earlier attempted to take the children from their school but was turned away by the school teacher, Mrs. Emelda Ogugua Ezekwude,” Akpoguma said.
Justice Onome Marshal-Umukoro, in his judgment, concluded that the prosecution had met the burden of proof.
He noted that the first defendant’s confessional statement indicated that he had introduced the idea of human rituals to the second defendant by providing the phone number of Chukwudi Edemuzor, who was allegedly seeking twins for ritual purposes.
The court held that the testimony of the Investigating Police Officer was admissible and not hearsay.
After the judgment, Akpoguma expressed gratitude to the court for delivering justice, reaffirming her belief in the effectiveness of the judicial system.
Reportedly, there are 62 murderers on the death row in Zimbabwe. If the Death Abolition Bill will be passed, their death penalty will be commuted to life in prison.
Last month Zimbabwe’s President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s declared an amnesty by announcing his decision to commute the death sentences of prisoners at Zimbabwe’s maximum prisons to life imprisonment.
The last time that the death penalty was executed in Zimbabwe was in 2005. (FVDK)
Public hearing dates set for Death Penalty Abolition Bill, week after Mnangagwa “saves” prisoners on roll
Published: May 3, 2024 By: Leopold Muntende
ZIMBABWEANS will, between May 6 and 10, be given an opportunity to share their views on the Death Penalty Abolition Bill in public hearings to be held across the country’s ten provinces.
Although independent of his decision, the hearings follow President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s recent decision to commute the death sentences of prisoners at Zimbabwe’s maximum prisons to life imprisonment in an amnesty announced last month.
According to the government, 62 people were on death row.
In February, Cabinet approved the principles to the Death Penalty Abolition Bill that seek to abolish capital punishment.
Committee on Human Rights have jointly announced a series of public hearings to discuss the death penalty,” said Parliament.
“These hearings aim to engage stakeholders, gather perspectives and guide potential legal reforms regarding three Bills currently before Parliament.”
Although Zimbabwe’s last execution was in 2005, the death sentence has, however, continued to be passed.
The Zimbabwean constitution allows for imposition of the death penalty in cases involving murder committed under aggravating circumstances and only on men between 21 and 70 years of age.
Cabinet’s decision to approve the principles of the Bill provoked discussions online with some arguing capital punishment must be maintained while citing cases such as that of Tapiwa Makore (7) whose head was hacked off by his uncle (Tapiwa Makore Snr) in a ritual killing that shocked the country in 2020.
Human rights organisations such as Amnesty International however declared the move progressive: “Zimbabwe has taken the right step towards ending this abhorrent and inhuman form of punishment that has no place in our world.”
The public hearings will also discuss the Criminal Law Amendment (Protection of Children and Young Persons) Bill “which aims to bring the law on sexual offences against minors into line with the Constitution” and the Administration of Estates Amendment Bill, “which seeks to restructure the office of the Master of the High Court.”
The schedule is copied below;
Team A:
Dates: From May 6 to May 10, 2024
Locations:
May 6, 2024: Kadoma Rimuka Hall
May 7, 2024: Gweru Mkoba Hall
May 8, 2024: Bulawayo Selborne Hotel
May 9, 2024: Lupane Community Hall
May 10, 2024: Filabusi Avoka
Team B:
Locations:
May 6, 2924: Tendai Hall, Bindura
May 7, 2024: Stodart Hall, Mbare
May 8, 2024: Mbuya Nehanda Hall, Marondera
May 9, 2024: Dangamvura Beit Hall
May 10, 2024: Masvingo Civic Center Hall, Masvingo
Shocking news from Zimbabwe, as reported by a national news site: ritual murders in the country are on the rise – allegedly.
Whereas the occurrence of ritualistic murders, locally often referred to as ‘muti murders’, is not in doubt – as demonstrated by the numerous cases reported on the present site, you may consult the dropdown menu ‘African countries’ to access all posts on Zimbabwe – it is nevertheless shocking to hear that there is an apparent recent surge in the number of these cruel crimes. As you may know, the organs or body parts ‘needed’ for ‘muti‘ have to be harvested from a living person.
One would think that the Tapiwa Makore murder case and the sentencing to death of his convicted murderers, his uncle and an accomplice, would deter potential perpetrators of muti related murders. According to recent newspaper reports, this is not the case.
A psychotherapist consulted (see the article below) points to mental illness as a significant factor behind these gruesome murders. I’ve often asked myself the same question: What makes someone a ritualistic murderer? Certainly, more research needs to be done as to why people ‘cross a border’ and decide to kill another human being – in a cruel way – as a means to ‘get rich quick’, to have success in business or to gain a certain (often political) position. Is it superstition? Is it a criminal mind? Selfishness? Greed? Or are ritualistic murderers mentally disturbed persons who should be treated for their ‘illness’ in stead of punished – death by hanging or a long prison sentence?
Asking the question means answering it.
Who knows the answer? (webmaster FVDK)
Zimbabwe: Ritual Killings Rise
Is the capital punishment a deterrent for potential ritualistic killers?
Published: February 3, 2024 By: ZimEye, Zimbabwe
A disturbing trend is sweeping across the nation, as reports of suspected ritual murders are on the rise, leaving communities in shock and children as primary targets of these heinous acts.
The superstitious belief that killing individuals in a specific manner, particularly involving torture and processing certain body parts, can create and maintain wealth is contributing to an alarming increase in brutal killings, leaving many with unanswered questions.
The resurgence of ritual killings has prompted concerns and calls for action from various quarters.
Traditional healer Sekuru Banda, dismissing the superstitions, condemns those who propagate such beliefs, emphasizing the need for hard work instead of seeking easy money through horrific means. Banda urges a change in mindsets, highlighting the dangers of people being led astray in pursuit of illusory wealth.
To gain further insights, a news crew sought the perspective of psychotherapist Dr. Mertha Nyamande, who points to mental illness as a significant factor behind gruesome murders.
Dr. Nyamande explains that many offenders, especially those involved in removing body parts, may suffer from mental ailments or psychopathy, challenging the notion that these acts are rooted in ritualistic beliefs. From a legal standpoint, Mr. Moffat Makuvatsine sheds light on how the law addresses ritual killings.
While there is no specific provision for such crimes, they can be treated as murder committed under aggravating circumstances, potentially carrying the death penalty or life imprisonment.
The legal expert emphasizes that any murder proved to have ulterior motives may result in severe penalties. Recent cases, including the tragic death of Tapiwa Makore, have brought the issue of ritual killings to the forefront.
Tapiwa’s killers, his uncle Tapiwa Senior and Tafadzwa Shamba, were sentenced to death for their involvement in the gruesome crime.
However, the scourge continues, with a recent incident in Guruve involving the brutal murder of a three-year-old, whose body was decapitated and burnt, with missing body parts.
The perpetrators of this heinous act remain at large, underscoring the urgency for a concerted effort from law enforcement and communities to address and eradicate the deeply troubling surge in ritual killings.
As the nation grapples with this distressing epidemic, there is a pressing need for comprehensive strategies that include education, mental health awareness, and stringent legal measures to curb the prevalence of such horrific crimes.
The existence of secret societies in Liberia is no news. It is rare, however, that people openly talk about secret societies. Everyone knows in Liberia that talking ‘too much’ about secret societies, their members or the incidents happening carries the death penalty.
For this reason the following story is interesting. While reading the article one is tempted to take Alexander Tarley’s confession with a grain of salt since his story also raises a number of questions. Moreover, the text is not always clear due to typos or the author’s mastery of the English language. Nonetheless I’ve decided to include his testimony about secret societies and their power in Liberia as it demonstrates the existence and power of traditional beliefs in this West African country, still in the third millennium.
It is not known to which secret society the speaker refers, but he mentions a Putu village named Jarwodee (presumably a village in the Putu Range, in Grand Gedeh) which makes it likely that his family is Krahn.
From other sources we learn more – though not everything – about the village of Jarwodee, the Putu Range (rich in iron ore, unexploited), the Krahn people (highly recommended source of information!) and Grand Gedeh County.
In this remote part of eastern Liberia traditional life and the modern world meet, but many mysteries and secrets including secret societies remain.
Put mountains, Grand Gedeh County, Liberia
As soon as I wil lhave found out more about Alexander Tarley’s story I will report my findings here. For the time being I just want to share his story with you. (webmaster FVDK)
A Liberian, Alexander Tarley Explains His Sad Story About ‘Secret Society’
Frontpage GNN News Liberia, January 16, 2024
Published: January 16, 2024 By: GNN, Liberia
Since my childhood, my grandfather had always said I will be the head of the secret society in my village putu Jarwodee. My grandfather was the Zoe (head of the secret society) my parents told me to avoid my grandfather whenever him come to Monrovia to visit.
When I asked my parents why my grandfather targeting me not my siblings.my dad told me it’s because I am named after my grandfather (Alexander Tarley) my grandfather would offer come to Monrovia where I grew up to get me. December 15, 2023 my grandfather died. It was a mixed feeling (happy and sad).
I was resolved that I am now safe, on December 19, 2023. The fourth day which is a traditional ritual to bury a high priest on the Fourth day after his deaf. Free from the verbal threats of killing me if I do not comply with my grandfather wish, I was happy that the consistent intimidation and physical harassment from my grandfather was over.
December 17, 2023, my family and I travel from held on Tuesday December 19, at the funeral (grave site) all the women were asked to leave.one of the women walk up to me and told me to leave immediately or else I will be initiated or killed if I refuse, fear grasp me and I came up with a escape plan. i asked the same lady to trick the Zoe’s by asking them to allow me give her water from my vehicle, they agree and allow me to walk to my vehicle.
We urgently got in the vehicle and escape from the grave site. I was terrified when that some people believed were chasing drove excessively and a man on the bike and I screened help, the bike rider tricked those following us we took off our shirts and droved to Buchanan.
While in Buchanan, some guys guys broke into my house and took away my money and other important items, my neighbor called my wife and told her that our house was broken into they were calling my name and making terrible statement to killed me two days later January 3, 2023 I left Liberia for Canada
As mentioned in my January 4 posting I estimate that no state in Nigeria is spared the evil of ritualistic killings – or ‘money rituals’ as these heinous practices are commonly referred to in Africa’s most populated country.
The article presented below very well illustrates this, even though it dates from 2022. Ritual murders are not only a ‘common crime’ in the south-southern, south-western and south-eastern part of the country – as mentioned in my January 3 posting – but are committed all over the country, hence also in the central part of the country and even the islam dominated states in the north.
As the following article emphasizes, Plateau State not only suffers from banditry, inter-ethnic violence and terrorist attacks but age-old belief in the power of ritualistic ceremonies and actives including murder also add to the state of insecurity which terrorizes the population. (webmaster FVDK)
Published: January 10, 2022 By: Chronicle, Nigeria
Governor Simon Lalong of Plateau state has revealed that the recent cases of ritual killings suspected to be carried out by “Yahoo Boys” will be dealt with by government.
He also vowed to make the state uninhabitable for criminals, kidnappers and others behind criminal activities in the state.
The governor said this at an International Church Service to mark the 2022 Armed Forces Remembrance Day and Emblem Appeal Launch held at St. Finbarrs Catholic Church, Rayfield Jos.
Lalong expressed outrage over the recent cases of ritual killings in Jos as well as kidnappings which have become a source of concern to the Government and citizens.
He said, “I am deeply saddened by the activities of criminals who are trying to disrupt the peace of our State. Of much concern is the recent cases ritual killings which are suspected to be carried out by yahoo boys that security reports indicate are migrating to Plateau.
“Let me warn that we will make Plateau hot for you and ensure that the State vomits you. After so much work we have done to restore peace and security, we will not fold our arms to see criminals take over. I warn you to vacate Plateau because our people want to live in peace. You have no place here”.
Lalong also said that the State has stiff laws against kidnapping and other violent crimes which include death penalty, warning that anyone convicted by a Court of competent jurisdiction will not be spared.
While commending the sacrifices of fallen heroes and veterans who took part in the First and Second World Wars; the Nigerian Civil War; and Peace Support Operations around the globe, Lalong said there are still very many security challenges that the gallant men and women of the Armed forces are still laying down their lives to ensure address.
“Our Armed forces are today battling criminals who have challenged our national sovereignty through terrorism, insurgency, banditry, kidnapping and many other nefarious activities that are aimed at destabilising our country and dividing the people,” Lalong said.
“We must therefore use this solemn moment to commend them for rising up to the occasion and making sure this does not happen. Despite the fact that the security situation in Nigeria at the moment is not what we desire it to be, we cannot afford to dampen the morale of the gallant officers and men who put their lives on the line daily to make sure that we sleep with our eyes closed.
Lalong noted that, “Without giving them their due recognition and honour, we will discourage not only them, but the younger generation from making similar sacrifices.”
In his sermon, the Parish Priest St. Finbarrs Catholic Church Rayfield and Chaplain, Government House Chapel Rev. Fr. Godfrey Gopep said while Nigerians are celebrating the sacrifices of its fallen heroes, there is need for them to give greater honour to the deceased by living in peace with one another to stopping other standing heroes from falling.
He said peace building cannot be possible without justice, forgiveness, tolerance and unity.
In their remarks, Chairman of the Nigerian Legion Plateau State, GOC 3rd Armoured Division represented by Brigadier General DD Kurmi, Gbong Gwom Jos represented by Agwom Izere HRH Rev. Isaac Wakili, CAN Chairman Plateau State represented by Pastor Elijah Akinwale all called on the people of Plateau State to embrace peace and support the Government in its efforts to restore Plateau State to its rightful place as the Home of Peace and Tourism.
They also called on government at levels to fulfill their obligations to the families of fallen heroes and pay proper attention to the welfare of the serving officers and men in order motivate them to continue to make sacrifices for the unity, peace and progress of Nigeria.
