The article below is from my heart. I will resist the temptation to quote from it, with one exception, the last sentence: It is time we put an end to these criminal and barbaric practices.
Also read my previous – yesterday’s – post. (FVDK)
Enugu’s fight against ‘juju’ man
Published: June 18, 2025 By: Editorial, This Day – Nigeria
The society must be united against barbaric acts.
To stem the tide of the get-rich-quick syndrome that has become a national menace, Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State is taking the battle to spiritualists of various shades and nomenclatures. These ‘native doctors’ are believed to be driving the surge in ritual killings, kidnapping, robbery, internet and advance-fee fraud, among others. Although such reports have become rampant across the country, the Enugu approach includes pragmatic steps to execute existing laws while also taking proactive legislative steps to mitigate future occurrences.
Driven largely by ignorance and poverty, the bizarre practice of killing for rituals has become commonplace in Nigeria. So rampant is the crime that in many cosmopolitan cities like Lagos, Ibadan, Enugu and Port Harcourt, there is a growing group of desperadoes murdering innocent people, particularly women, children and sometimes the physically challenged, for ritual purposes. These murderers, sometimes called head-hunters, go to any extent in search of body parts. Due to these nefarious activities, ritual killing is said to account for many missing people in the country. That is the menace that the Enugu State government has chosen to confront.
Mbah’s intervention followed the rescue of an 11-year-old boy from a notorious ritualist in the state in whose house were discovered many dead bodies, including that of a pregnant woman. In line with Section 315 (Second Amendment) of the Criminal Code Law, Cap 30, Laws of Enugu State, the suspect is now in police custody. Mbah has equally initiated the ‘Maintenance of Internal Security, Vigilance and Order Bill’ to checkmate criminal activities among native doctors, herbalists and related persons in the state. The proposed legislation, while making registration with the government mandatory for anyone who claims to render spiritual services, outlaws outright money rituals, and criminal bulletproof charms. It also prescribes 20-year jail term without an option of fine for anyone, who performs, facilitates, demands, directs, or participates in any ritual or traditional practice involving the use of human parts.
Again, where a person claims spiritual powers under this law, the burden shall lie on such a person, during investigation, to provide reasonable proof of the purported supernatural abilities claimed. Going further, the Bill places obligations of surveillance and crime reporting on communities, traditional rulers and Presidents-General of towns, failing which they will henceforth be deemed as accomplices in illicit spiritual services. Landlords and proprietors of hotels, guest houses, and estate associations are to obtain and transmit valid means of identification and other details of their prospective tenants and guests to the relevant authority.
Even though the belief lacks common sense, perpetrators of rituals indulge in these bestial acts for the purpose of making ‘instant wealth’ or what some have aptly dubbed ‘blood money’. Many students of tertiary institutions in the country are also now involved in what is called, ‘Yahoo Plus’ with the aid of these rituals. Meanwhile, it is difficult to prove that these sacrifices, done at the instruction of some crafty traditional medicine practitioners and witch doctors, can catapult people from penury into instant wealth.
We endorse the approach by Enugu State. But beyond legislation, the society must be united in taking a stand against the perpetrators of these evil acts and the increasing erosion of our values, which indeed recognise and place hard work, rectitude, and morality way above riches and power. The churches, mosques, and traditional institutions must revive the crusade against money worship and illicit affluence as were the days of old. There is also an urgent need for enlightenment campaigns to put a lie to the erroneous belief that money can grow out of the body parts of murdered people. It is time we put an end to these criminal and barbaric practices.
Although the following article dates from early this year (January 30), its contents warrants presentation here.
Nigeria is notoriously known for its ritual murders, locally called ‘money rituals’, and I’ve included many news reports on ritual murder cases on this site. Nevertheless, the following is worth reading.
What makes the article even more harrowing is the, presumably, big gap between reported ritual murders and actual ritualistic murders. In Nigeria as well as elsewhere on the African continent, an unknown but significant number of people disappear without trace every year.
Warning: the following article may disturb readers because of its graphic contents. (FVDK)
Nigeria records 150 ritual killings in 6 months, experts call for urgent action
Kaduna, Kano, Katsina residents seek death sentence for ritualists, cannibals
Published: January 30, 2025 By: Pulse, Nigeria
NAN reports that the police have apprehended many of the ritualists including a man who killed his mother, grandmother, sister and her son in Enugu.
A security expert, Mr Seyi Babaeko has raised concerns over the surge in ritual killings in the country, calling for urgent measures to address the trend.
Babaeko, the Managing Director of Absolute Security and Advance Protocol Ltd. expressed his feelings in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday in Lagos.
The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) revealed that over 150 ritual killing cases were recorded in Nigeria in the past six months.
NAN reports that the police have apprehended many of the ritualists including a man who killed his mother, grandmother, sister and her son on November 27 in the Amaeze community in Nsukka Local Government Area of Enugu State.
The Ogun Police also apprehended twin brothers for alleged murder and dismembering of a lady after luring her to their Abeokuta residence on December 22.
Similarly, a local church operator allegedly killed a 55-year-old widow on November 6, in her apartment at Umuediabali community in Ahiazu Mbaise LGA of Imo. He cut off her private organs and her breasts.
Also, the police apprehended a man, 29, who killed his mother on Christmas Day, shaved her hair and dumped her body in a well in Batriko, Eastern Boki LGA of Cross River State.
According to Babaeko, the rise in ritual killings in Nigeria is a disturbing trend that reflects deeper socio-economic, cultural, and security challenges.
He said that the growing desperation for wealth, widespread belief in supernatural influences on success, and the erosion of moral values had fueled the menace.
Economic hardship, high unemployment rates, and the glamorisation of sudden wealth in society have pushed many, especially young people into desperate and criminal actions.
The responsibility for the increase is multifaceted. While individuals who perpetrate these crimes are primarily to blame, societal values and institutional failures also contribute
According to him, the media, particularly social media, often amplifies stories of young people acquiring wealth mysteriously, indirectly encouraging others to seek similar paths.
The expert said that some traditional and religious leaders, who should condemn such acts, remain silent or complicit.
He said that the law enforcement agencies, which should deter such crimes through swift investigations and punishments, had not been proactive enough in tackling the issue.
The failure of law enforcement to track and punish offenders effectively contributes to the increase, he added.
He urged the government to take urgent steps to address the growing insecurity.
Expert raises concern over rising cases of ritual killings in Nigeria.
The government should strengthen the criminal justice system to ensure swift prosecution of offenders is critical. He stated;
Security agencies must intensify intelligence gathering and surveillance to dismantle networks involved in ritual killings.
Public enlightenment campaigns should be launched to counter the belief that human sacrifice leads to wealth.
Additionally, economic policies should prioritise job creation, as financial stability will reduce the desperation that drives some individuals toward such crimes
According to him, a coordinated effort among stakeholders is necessary to curb the menace and restore security across the country. He noted;
Community and religious leaders must play a more active role in addressing the root causes of ritual killings.
Traditional institutions should publicly denounce these practices, while faith-based organisations should emphasise ethical means of achieving success.
Schools must incorporate moral education into their curricula to instil strong values in young people.
Parents also have a role to play in guiding their children away from negative influences.
Tackling ritual killings requires a holistic approach that combines strong law enforcement, economic empowerment, community engagement, and a reorientation of societal values.
Warning: the following post contains graphic details which may upset readers.
Unbelievable. It is incredible. Within a week I receive reports of ritual killings in Eswatini, Nigeria (Enugu and Kwara states), South Africa, Uganda and Zimbabwe. I fear the reported cases are only the tip of the iceberg as many ritual murders – called muthi murders in Southern Africa, and money rituals in Nigeria and Ghana – go unnoticed. People simply disappear in many African states and they are never heard from again. ‘Dissolved in thin air.’
In Zimbabwe, a baby boy was found dead, murdered. The body of the eight weeks old victim was found with parts missing: his nose and right cheek were ripped off. Police are investigating the murder as a suspected ritual killing.
Warning: the following post contains graphic details which may upset readers (webmaster FVDK)..
Nigeria is a federal republic comprising 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) of Abuja. The 36 states are divided into six geopolitical zones commonly called zones.
Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones
The North West (NW), North East (NE) and North Central (NC) zones constitute Northern Nigeria. Politically, historically and culturally we may distinguish Northern and Southern Nigeria, but these broad categories don’t do justice to the great differences that exist within these areas. When I first went to Nigeria, in 1999, I asked a friend who knows the country very well what to expect. ‘Nigeria is a nice set of countries‘, she said.
This short statement says it all. It’s hard to speak of one country, although it has one constitution and one flag and is a member of many international organizations.
The Northern region consists of 19 states and the Federal Capital territory (FCT) of Abuja, the Southern region houses 17 states.
Map of Nigeria showing states in the northern and southern regions.
In the past I have on many occasions paid attention to the scourge of ritualistic murders in Nigeria and related practices such as abductions and torture. Let me suffice to refer to my recent post dated March 15, The horror of ritual killings in Nigeria, which also includes ritual murder cases in Northern Nigeria.
Moreover, it is necessary to emphasize that the number mentioned above refers only to reported ritual killings, and thus in all likelihood is only the tip of the iceberg.
On more than one occasion I’ve stated here that most likely Nigeria holds a dismal continental record of being the country with the highest number of ritual murders – only partly explained by being Africa’s most populous country. Hadiza Musa refers to research by an NGO, the West African Network for Peace Building, revealing that Nigeria recorded 185 ritual-related deaths between January 2021 and January 2022.
In addition, the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) reported that over 150 ritual killing cases often linked to young people seeking quick wealth, were recorded in Nigeria in the past six months. (FVDK)
Ritual killings: Experts call for urgent action over rising cases in Northern Nigeria
Published: April 8, 2025 By: Hadiza Musa – Daily Post, Nigeria
“Ritual Killing” a term referring to the intentional murder of individuals for spiritual, economic, or supernatural purposes, often involving body mutilation or organ harvesting were often associated with Southern Nigeria where they were linked to wealth-seeking practices, political power struggles, and deep-rooted traditional beliefs.
Over the years, several high-profile cases have reinforced this perception.
One of the most infamous cases was the 2004 Okija Shrine discovery in Anambra State, where the police uncovered dozens of human skulls and decomposing bodies allegedly used for sacrifices by politicians and businessmen.
Similarly, in 2014, the Ibadan ‘Forest of Horror’ was exposed, revealing a den of ritualists who had abducted, killed, and harvested body parts from their victims.
In recent years, however, there has been a notable shift, with cases of ritual killings increasingly reported in Northern states such as Kwara, Nasarawa, Jigawa, and Bauchi.
While ritual killings were once largely associated with Southern Nigeria, the rising economic challenges and the erosion of moral values have played a significant role in their spread to the North.
Between January and April 2025 alone, at least 10 cases have been reported across Kwara, Nasarawa, Jigawa, Benue, Abuja and Bauchi states.
In January and in Nasarawa State, Timileyin Ajayi, described as a gospel singer, allegedly murdered a lady, 24-year-old Salome Adaidu, and dismembered her body.
He was caught carrying the severed head of his victim in a bag, which alarmed onlookers, leading to his apprehension.
When he was arrested by the police, other dismembered parts of the deceased’s body were recovered from his home.
The deceased, Salome Adaidu was identified as a member of the National Youth Service Corps who was serving in Abuja.
Also, in Kwara, a final-year student, Hafsoh Lawal, was lured and killed by Abdulrahman Bello, a self-proclaimed cleric and her boyfriend whom she met on Facebook.
According to the Kwara State Police Command, the 29-year-old suspect killed Lawal and dismembered her for alleged ritual purposes at a location in the Olunlade area of Ilorin on Tuesday, February 11, 2025.
The headless corpse of the pupil was discovered by the roadside in Jikas-Dabaja village, Gwaram Local Government Area, Jigawa on March 12 (Wednesday).
The body was mutilated, with the private parts removed, prompting the police to launch an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the gruesome act.
On Sunday, March 16, the Police Command in Jigawa State announced the arrest of a 45-year-old suspect in connection with the crime.
The suspect, a teacher of the deceased, was apprehended and detained following a tip-off.
Experts call for urgent action as ritual killings surge in Northern Nigeria
The incidents and many others highlighted the urgent need for comprehensive measures to address ritual killings in the region with stakeholders, attributing the trend to economic struggles, poverty, and lack of education.
Comrade Umar Hamisu Kofar Naisa, Executive Director of the Society for Educational Development and Socio-Democratic Activities (SEDSAC), linked the surge in ritual killings to poverty and the worsening economic conditions in the region.
He told DAILY POST that illiteracy and lack of education play a significant role in fueling such heinous acts.
According to him, ritual killings violate human rights, instill fear, and create insecurity in communities.
“If we examine the situation closely, ritual killings not only violate human rights but also instill fear and insecurity in communities. The psychological trauma experienced by victims’ families and survivors is immeasurable,” he stated in an interview with DAILY POST.
On legal responses, he urged the government to strengthen policies that protect human rights and enact specific legislation to prosecute perpetrators of ritual killings.
He also stressed the need for collaboration among various stakeholders to curb the menace.
Hamisu called on NGOs to intensify awareness campaigns on the dangers of ritual killings, provide support to victims’ families, and advocate for policy reforms.
“We must ensure that policies are created and enforced to put an end to ritual killings in Nigeria,” he added.
He further advocated for grassroots strategies and community engagement, emphasizing the role of traditional and religious leaders in tackling the issue.
“What was once seen as a problem in the South is now happening here. We must work together to stop it,” he urged.
Suleiman Hamza, a student in Ibrahimul Ahmadul Qadhi Islamiyya, highlighted the strong stance of both Islam and Christianity against killings.
He referenced Islamic teachings, noting that taking a life unjustly is akin to killing all of humanity.
“In Islam, the sanctity of human life is paramount. Even in cases of accidental killing, compensation is required, which today can amount to as much as ₦344.8 million,” he explained in an interview with DAILY POST.
Hamza described ritual killings as a new and disturbing phenomenon in the North, stating that in some cases, perpetrators even resort to exhuming corpses from graves for ritualistic purposes.
According to him, there have been more sermons in both churches and mosques, as well as intersectoral conferences and seminars, emphasizing the need to address ritual killings and their root causes.
He called on religious leaders to intensify sermons against such practices and educate the public on the severe consequences of engaging in ritual killings.
Nigeria accounts for a significant number of ritual killings
According to research by an NGO, the West African Network for Peace Building, Nigeria recorded 185 ritual-related deaths between January 2021 and January 2022.
The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) revealed that over 150 ritual killing cases often linked to young people seeking quick wealth, were recorded in Nigeria in the past six months.
The experts argued that the surge in ritual killings in Northern Nigeria signals a disturbing shift that demands urgent intervention and unless decisive action is taken by policymakers, security agencies, and societal leaders, ritual killings could become an even greater threat to public safety and human rights in the region.
The Commissioner of Police in charge of Ogun State Command, Dr Lanre Ogunlowo made a remarkable statement while being interviewed on the subject of the alarming rise in crimes and how to ensure security and safety in this southwestern coastal state. Ogun State borders Lagos, Ondo, Osun and Oyo states in the south, east and north and the republic of Benin in the west.
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.
CP Ogunlowo made the chilling acknowledgement that “Quite a number of this issue of ritual killing and murder cases happen in homesteads (….)”
True, he combines in this particular sentence both ritual murders and ‘ordinary’ murders, but nonetheless his comments warrant more than superficial attention. Besides, if this is the case in Ogun State, what about the other 35 Nigerian states?
It is common knowledge that the scourge of ritual killings (known as ‘money rituals’ in Nigeria) scares millions of Nigerians, young and old, males and females – with over 220 million people Nigeria is Africa’s most populous country – and constitutes a serious violation of one of the most basic human rights, the right to live without fear. Ogunlowo’s recognition means even at home Nigerians are not safe.
The states’ governments and the federal government in Abuja have work to do! (FVDK)
Many ritual killings, murder cases happen in homesteads —Ogun State Commissioner of Police Ogunlowo
Ogun State Commissioner of Police, Dr. Lanre Ogunlowo. Photo: Oluwatoyin Malik
Published: April 4, 2025 By: Oluwatoyin Malik – Nigerian Tribune
In this interview with Crime Editor, OLUWATOYIN MALIK, the Commissioner of Police in charge of Ogun State Command, Dr Lanre Ogunlowo, speaks on the efforts in curbing crimes and ensuring security and safety in the state. Excerpts:
KIDNAPPING in the South West states, Ogun inclusive, is of utmost concern currently. What is Ogun State Police Command doing about it?
We don’t take things for granted because anything can happen at any time. So, even in peace times, we are still on our toes. And for the Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers and tactical units, all of us keep putting pressure on one another that our areas must be calm. So, you can’t be executive DPO, executive Area Commander. There is always need to go out and see what is happening in your domain.
We try to get feedbacks from people. We can’t go the press and tell them Ogun is peaceful and calm while people experience otherwise. We tell the people to be candid and tell us if we are not doing enough. We don’t take it as criticism. Let them tell us how they feel. That will guide our own actions too.
God is helping us, and the governor is doing his utmost, I must say that. Ogun state government is assisting us all the way. It is not that we don’t have one-off situations but as they come up, we deal with them.
The last major one we had was in Ogijo area about three weeks ago when they a young boy was kidnapped. Eventually, we put pressure on the kidnappers and the boy escaped unhurt because of the pressure. During our encounter, one of them (kidnappers) was neutralised by the police firepower.
What we are trying to do is to let people know this: if you are committing crime, you have two options – either stop or get caught. Stop it or you answer to the law. But like I do say, what we just do majorly is to continue to put pressure on our personnel that they must be awake for the people of Ogun State to sleep soundly.
Except the one-offs, does it mean kidnappings have reduced?
The Inspector General of Police has been very helpful. I know we have five functional Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) in recent time. We have one at Ijebu Ode, we have one by Sagamu interchange, we have one at Ilaro axis, we have one at Iperu Remo and we have one patrolling Abeokuta. We just want people to have peace of mind because the fear of security forces is also security on its own.
I will be honest; that does not mean that we are not having challenges, especially attacks on commercial motorcyclists. We have tried to educate them and create awareness that as they are looking for money, they ride bike 10 p.m., 11 p.m., 1 a.m., and they see two, three people who wave them down and ask to be taken to a place, and you pick them. Constantly, we have cases of attacks on these commercial bike riders and we have reached out to them that they should take a rest after working till 8 or 9 p.m. because late-hour attacks are of concern, but we are still having them because the riders will not listen. They seem not to care about their security. This is a major thing we have been dealing with. We can only just continue to keep vigil so that we don’t have such incidents during the coming celebration of Easter as we did at Eid-el-Fitr celebration.
What about the ritual killers?
Just as all other incidents we are talking about, in ritual killing, I don’t know where they got this idea that you can kill or use human being to make money. It’s a sad development. In Ogun State, we are dealing with them as best as we can. As many as we are able to get hold of, we investigate and prosecute, so we enjoin citizens to be self-aware, to be concerned about their security. Quite a number of this issue of ritual killing and murder cases happen in homesteads where no security personnel can protect anyone. We have relations, families where one person kills the other. These are things happening in homes which we can’t do much about”. (italics added – webmaster FVDK) Be that as it may, the Deputy Commissioner, Criminal Investigation Department (DCCID) and the Assistant Commissioner, Criminal Investigation Department (ACCID) are doing their best in that regard. We just keep trying.
Some people go to graveyards and cemeteries to exhume corpses to remove body parts, with the belief that the offence is bailable and they will regain their freedom soon. What’s your take on this?
We can only speak for the police and their activities. We investigate and process them to court. We are law enforcement agents. We don’t make law, we enforce it, and we can only operate within the ambit of the law. If the law declares a particular act as bailable, it is not within our own competence to say otherwise. It is just as the issue of land grabbing, it’s everyday incident in Ogun. And we say, look, the police cannot apportion land, and we cannot declare A or B as the owner of land. If you have any issue, go to court. But what the police will not allow to happen is the breakdown of law and order. If we see people disturbing public peace because of a piece of land, our own is to move everybody to court. Let them tell the court that they are having issues over land ownership. The police cannot decide who owns the land.
The moment we take cases to court, it is outside police purview. If the law classifies it as bailable offence, then it is. A lot of people usually say that police cannot be trusted because when they take confirmed criminals to them, by a week after, such criminals would be seen in town, free. If we arrest, we detain them for investigation, but such cannot be prolonged. If it’s a bailable offence, the person will be released on bail. And when we complete our investigation, we go to court. The court will exercise its power if it is a bailable offence, and we cannot fault them for that.
Warning: the following post and related articles contain graphic details which may upset readers.
On previous occasions I have stated here that the numbers of abductions and murders for ritual motives are running sky-high in Nigeria, not to speak of missing persons leaving no trace. Having a brief look at the contents of this site since I started it in 2018, one is tempted to say that this West African country is well covered but by far I do not report all recorded cases of ritualistic murders in Africa’s most populated country (over 225 million inhabitants in 2024).
The list is too long to continue. Each day new ritual killing cases are unearthed, sometimes literally.
Given this background, the article below is not surprising and the reader will not be surprised that I fully support the author’s view: that greed is a basic ingredient and motive for ritualistic violence.
However, after having read the article I remain with two – related – unanswered questions.
Why is it that superstition is so widespread in Nigeria? Ritual murders and the harvesting of organs, other body parts, in short, ‘money rituals’, are carried out – by ‘ordinary criminals’ as well as by ‘ordinary citizens’ – because it is believed that ritual murders can make people rich or famous. Why is it that the belief in ‘juju’, the power of the supernatural, is so persistent? (webmaster FVDK)
it is believed that ritual killings can make people rich
When wealth demands blood: The horror of ritual killings in Nigeria
Published: March 13, 2025 By: Kelly Odaro – The Nigerian Observer
Amidst Nigeria’s economic quagmire, a more sinister affliction festers — ritual killings. This grotesque practice, once whispered in hushed tones and relegated to the annals of folklore, has metamorphosed into an alarming commonplace reality.
The nation wakes up to a grim litany of media headlines detailing the heinous acts of individuals who, in their insatiable pursuit of material prosperity, desecrate human life with blood ritual. The moral fabric of our society is unravelling at an alarming pace, frayed by an unsettling obsession with overnight wealth.
The recent gruesome murder in the Evbuotubu community of Benin City, where a young man’s head was severed, has once again spotlighted the disturbing prevalence of ritual killings in the region. This heinous act is not an isolated incident but part of a growing pattern of bloodshed fuelled by a dangerous obsession with instant wealth and power.
Ritual killings, often driven by superstitious beliefs and occult practices, have persisted in many parts of Nigeria despite modernisation and law enforcement efforts. In Benin City, several cases have been reported over the years, each more chilling than the last. Many of the unsuspecting victims are young men and women, often lured, kidnapped, and gruesomely murdered in rituals meant to bring fortune to perpetrators.
In past years, there have been numerous reports of mutilated bodies discovered in forests, abandoned buildings, or shallow graves, their organs harvested for money-making rituals. In
2020, a similar case rocked the Otuo community in Owan East Local Government Area of Edo State where three young men and a woman were set ablaze by a mob for allegedly beheading a secondary school student in a suspected ritual killing (Punch, 25 February, 2020). In 2018, four brothers allegedly unalived their grandmother for money rituals in Ohovbe quarters, Ikpoba Hill in Benin City, according to Vanguard News (January 9, 2018).
Likewise, in 2019, police uncovered a shrine where human skulls and body parts were found, indicating that ritual killings were being carried out on a large scale. More so, over twenty mummified bodies were discovered in a building in Benin City (The Guardian, August 8, 2022), and a myriad of similar incidents occurred across Nigeria.
Despite widespread condemnation, these horrific acts continue, largely because of deep-rooted societal attitudes that glorify sudden wealth without questioning its source. Many individuals with dubious riches are still celebrated, given chieftaincy titles, and honoured in religious circles simply because of their financial influence. This cultural acceptance creates an environment where desperate individuals, especially young men, resort to extreme measures to attain wealth and social status.
Addressing this crisis requires more than just police crackdowns. There must be a fundamental shift in societal values —one that prioritises ethical wealth over ill-gotten riches. Religious institutions, traditional rulers, and community leaders must take a firm stand against the glorification of questionable affluence.
The Evbuotubu incident is a grim reminder that Nigeria is still battling the scourge of ritual killings. Until society collectively condemns and rejects wealth acquired through bloodshed, such horrors will persist, leaving a trail of innocent victims in their wake.
Once upon a time, wealth in Nigerian society was synonymous with industry, resilience, and ingenuity. The elders of old (traders, craftsmen, farmers, and entrepreneurs) prided themselves on the sweat of their brows. A man’s affluence was a direct reflection of his diligence and years of toil.
Today, however, a corrosive paradigm has taken root, one that glorifies instant affluence, irrespective of the means through which it is obtained. The insidious doctrine of “making it by any means necessary” has replaced the time-honoured principle of hard work.
This paradigm shift is not accidental. It is the consequence of a deeply flawed value system where wealth, no matter how dubiously acquired, commands reverence. The very individuals who should be ostracised for their morally reprehensible conduct are, instead, venerated. This toxic culture emboldens desperate youth to explore even the most abhorrent means to attain affluence.
The most disheartening aspect of this trend is the complicity (both tacit and overt) of society’s supposed moral gatekeepers. Religious leaders, who should be the custodians of righteousness, have too often become enablers of corruption. In the grandiose edifices of faith, where the gospel of prosperity is preached with fervour, those with questionable sources of wealth are celebrated.
They are given front-row seats, called upon for prayers, and sometimes elevated to positions of religious leadership, all because their ill-gotten wealth fuels the construction of mega worship centres.
Traditional rulers, the custodians of Nigeria’s cultural ethos, are equally culpable. The hallowed institution of chieftaincy, once reserved for men of impeccable character, has been commercialised. Titles that once symbolised honour are now available to the highest bidder. The affluent, irrespective of their moral standing, are conferred with chieftaincy titles in elaborate ceremonies attended by society’s crème de la crème.
In many instances, these so-called ‘chiefs’ are known for their nefarious dealings, yet they are paraded as paragons of success.
The elite, politicians, and corporate magnates are not innocent either. Many continue to patronise, endorse, and associate with individuals whose wealth bears the stench of blood money. By doing so, they lend credibility to criminality and normalise the abnormal. When men who are rumoured to have amassed their fortunes through dark means are invited to state functions, given government contracts, or honoured in grand events, the message to the struggling youth is clear — wealth, regardless of its origin, is the ultimate measure of success.
The media, which should serve as society’s watchdog, is often a double-edged sword. While some journalists and media houses expose the nefarious activities of ritual killers, others glorify the very individuals whose sources of wealth are dubious. The extravagant lifestyles of these questionable figures are routinely splashed across the pages of newspapers, magazines, television, and online platforms, painting them as role models rather than cautionary tales.
Reality television, social media influencers, and music videos further exacerbate the problem by promoting a culture of ostentation. Young people, bombarded with images of expensive cars, lavish mansions, and extravagant vacations, begin to equate self-worth with material possessions. Those who lack the patience for legitimate wealth creation resort to criminality, with some taking the ultimate plunge into the dark world of ritual killings.
At the core of ritual killings is the utter dehumanization of victims. The perpetrators, in their frenzied pursuit of wealth, strip their victims of all humanity, reducing them to mere commodities for sacrifice. The gruesome nature of these killings — dismembered bodies, missing vital organs, and ritualistic symbols points to an eerie level of barbarism that should have no place in civilised society.
Many victims are unsuspecting individuals. Children are lured with sweets or money, young women deceived by fake lovers, and travellers waylaid by ritual syndicates. The lack of stringent security measures, poor law enforcement, and a failing judicial system embolden these criminals, who often evade justice or buy their way out of prosecution.
One of the greatest tragedies of Nigeria’s legal system is its failure to serve as a deterrent to ritual killers. Reports of arrests are frequent, but convictions are rare. The wheels of justice turn at a sluggish pace, and in many cases, perpetrators with financial clout secure their freedom.
Corruption within the police force further compounds the problem. Cases of ritual killings are sometimes swept under the carpet in exchange for bribes, leaving families of victims without closure. Even when cases proceed to court, the judiciary’s lethargy allows them to drag on indefinitely, creating a loophole for criminals to manoeuvre their way back into society.
If Nigeria is to rid itself of the scourge of ritual killings, a fundamental societal reorientation is imperative. The following measures must be taken:
Schools must incorporate value-based education that emphasises the dignity of labour and the dangers of illicit wealth.
The youth must be taught that wealth, when pursued through righteous means, is more fulfilling and sustainable; religious leaders must take an uncompromising stance against those who amass wealth through dubious means. Places of worship should cease to be sanctuaries for financial criminals.
Besides, traditional rulers should uphold the sanctity of their institutions by ensuring that only men and women of impeccable character are honoured – chieftaincy titles must not be ‘commoditised.’
More so, the media as watchdog of the society must prioritise investigative journalism that exposes ritual killers rather than glorify ostentatious lifestyles. Content creators should promote positive role models rather than individuals with questionable affluence.
Again, the police and judiciary must be restructured to ensure that ritual killers are swiftly apprehended, tried, and convicted.
There must be no sacred cows; the law must take its course without favouritism.
Moreover, citizens must become more vigilant and report suspicious activities. Neighbourhood watch groups should be empowered to work with security agencies in identifying and apprehending suspected ritualists.
Ritual killings in Nigeria are symptomatic of a deeper societal malaise — a value system that places wealth above humanity. The tragedy is not merely in the blood spilt but in the indifference with which society treats this growing menace. If the nation does not recalibrate its moral compass, the ritualistic shedding of human blood will continue unchecked, and our collective humanity will be the ultimate casualty.
Ritual killers are on the prowl, preying on unsuspecting victims across the country. These criminals lurk in both rural and urban areas, taking advantage of isolated locations, late hours, and unsuspecting individuals.
Parents and guardians must take proactive measures to safeguard their children and wards from falling victim to these nefarious acts. Educating young people about the dangers of accepting rides from strangers, wandering off alone, or engaging with unknown individuals is crucial. Additionally, people must exercise caution in their daily movements, ensuring they avoid desolate areas, especially at night.
Men and women alike must remain vigilant and prioritise personal safety. Walking alone on lonely paths or deserted streets, particularly in poorly lit areas, increases the risk of being targeted. Instead, people should move in groups whenever possible and be mindful of their surroundings. Until then, everyone must stay alert because in a society where ritual killers operate with impunity, personal vigilance is the first line of defence.
Let those who have ears listen and let those in positions of influence act. Posterity will not forgive a society that sacrifices its own on the altar of unbridled greed.
Odaro, a columnist, lectures in the Department of Mass Communication, Auchi Polytechnic, Auchi.
The Emir of Ilorin (Kwara State) and Chairman of the Kwara State Traditional Rulers Council joined religious leaders in condemning the ritual killing of Hafsoh Lawal. By publicly condemning the violent crime, the Emir of Ilorin Alhaji Sulu-Gambari also joined other traditional rulers who recently spoke out against the crime of ritual murder in this West African country.
The religious leaders and traditional rulers who speak out against the crime of ritual murder are to be commended.
Nigeria’s political leaders and legislators, and the police and judicial authorities of Africa’s most populated country should leave no stone unturned to apprehend and prosecute the perpetrators of ritualistic murders while simultaneously campaigning for the eradication of the get-rich-quick mentality which in combination with the belief in tradition and superstition perpetuate the cruel crime of murder for ritualistic motives and gross human rights violations. (webmaster FVDK)
Emir of Ilorin condemns ritual killing of final-year student, says justice must be served
The Emir of Ilorin and Chairman Kwara State Traditional Rulers Council, Mai-Martaba Alhaji (Dr) Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari CFR
The Emir of Ilorin and Chairman Kwara State Traditional Rulers Council, Mai-Martaba Alhaji (Dr) Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari CFR, has expressed sadness over the gruesome killing of Hafsoh Lawal, a final-year student of the Kwara State College of Education, (KWCOE), Ilorin by one Abdulrahman Bello, an acclaimed ‘alfa’.
Alhaji Sulu-Gambari, in a statement issued by his spokesman, Mallam Abdulazeez Arowona, condemned the incident, saying, “It is most unfortunate, alien and regrettable act of wickedness.”
According to him, “It has become pertinent for parents, guardians as well as people in the neighbourhood to remain vigilant to happenings around them, especially ensuring that their children and wards are in the company of people of tested and trusted characters with well-researched family background.
“It is only hardwork that pays; total war should be declared against idleness, laziness and unwarranted loitering around the society by youths in the name of finding means of survival.”
Alhaji Sulu-Gambari also urged clerics in the Ilorin Emirate and beyond to sanitise the system by ensuring that the likes of Abdulrahman Bello are expressly exposed to the law enforcement agencies before wrecking more havoc and damaging the lives of innocent persons.
While commiserating the families of the late Hafsoh Lawal over the unfortunate end to the life of the promising daughter, Alhaji Sulu-Gambari urged the Nigeria Police and the Judiciary to ensure that toral justice is served in this matter while also directing religious leaders, especially Imams in Mosques in Ilorin Emirate and Kwara State at large to ensure that their Friday Khutbah focuses more attention on morality, dignity in labour as well as importance and respect for the souls of fellow human-being irrespective of tribe, religion and status.
The Informant247 reports that an Ilorin-born middle-aged man identified as Abdulrahman Bello has allegedly killed and dismembered the body of Lawal Hafsoh, a final-year student of Kwara State College of Education, Ilorin, for suspected ritual purposes.
According to reports, the deceased, Lawal Hafsoh, had on Monday, 10th of February 2025, declared missing after receiving a call at the naming ceremony.
It was gathered that the lady’s whereabouts were unknown since she received the call.
Meanwhile, on Tuesday, 11th of February 2025, the deceased parents reported the case to the Divisional Police Station at Oja Oba Police Station in Ilorin, the state capital.
However, the police requested her phone number and used it to track her last call, which was traced to an individual living in the Offa garage area of Ilorin,
The suspect, whose family house is in Isalekoto, was tracked and arrested, where he initially denied the knowledge of the lady’s whereabouts. However, when the police searched his house, he confessed that the lady was in his area and had died from an asthma attack after he called her to come over.
Upon further investigation, the police found the lady’s body dismembered and hidden in a bowl, along with the equipment used to dismember her. The suspect is now at the police headquarters in Ilorin.
It was reported that the suspect and the deceased met on Facebook, where they both got connected.
However, an effort to speak to the Kwara State Police Public Relations Officer SP Toun Ejire-Adeyemi proved abortive as she didn’t pick up her call at the time of filing this report.
An Ilorin-born middle-aged man identified as Abdulrahman Bello has allegedly killed and dismembered the body of Lawal Hafsoh, a final-year student of Kwara State College of Education, Ilorin, for suspected ritual purposes.
According to reports, the deceased, Lawal Hafsoh, had on Monday, 10th of February 2025, declared missing after receiving a call at the naming ceremony.
It was gathered that the lady’s whereabouts were unknown since she received the call.
Meanwhile, on Tuesday, 11th of February 2025, the deceased parents reported the case to the Divisional Police Station at Oja Oba Police Station in Ilorin, the state capital.
However, the police requested her phone number and used it to track her last call, which was traced to an individual living in the Offa garage area of Ilorin,
The suspect, whose family house is in Isalekoto, was tracked and arrested, where he initially denied the knowledge of the lady’s whereabouts. However, when the police searched his house, he confessed that the lady was in his area and had died from an asthma attack after he called her to come over.
Upon further investigation, the police found the lady’s body dismembered and hidden in a bowl, along with the equipment used to dismember her. The suspect is now at the police headquarters in Ilorin.
It was reported that the suspect and the deceased met on Facebook, where they both got connected.
However, an effort to speak to the Kwara State Police Public Relations Officer SP Toun Ejire-Adeyemi proved abortive as she didn’t pick up her call at the time of filing this report.
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.
Warning: links in this post may lead to articles containing graphic details which may upset readers.
At first sight one may wonder why I include the following news article(s), ‘No record of ritual killings in Benue State’ according to police sources. ‘Good news’, one would say.
However, I remember several posts on this site reporting and commenting on killings for ritualistic motives in Benue State. Besides, I far from pretend to have covered all discovered ritual murder cases in Benue State in the past few years.
To be more precise, I point to the following posts (while reminding the reader that I only started this website in 2018):
What do you mean, ‘No record of ritual killings in Benue State’?
Below I’ve included five Nigerian newspaper articles with virtually the same text and bringing the same message – the same wrong message.
The conclusion is evident: One must always be careful to accept without question that what is written is true. (webmaster FVDK)
Background information:
Benue State is located in the North Central geopolitical zone of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (Nigeria is divided into six geopolitical zones commonly called zones). With a surface area of 34,059 km2 Benue State ranks 11th (out of 36 states) and with a population of about 7 million people in 2024 it also occupies the 11th position. The capital of Benue State is Makurdi.
No record of ritual killings in Benue – Police
Published: March 3, 2025 By: Ejembi Ogwuche – Daily Post, Nigeria
The Benue State Police Command has said there is no record of ritual killings in the state.
This spokesperson of the command, CSP Catherine Anene made the assertion in Makurdi on Sunday.
She noted that although there are other crimes, there is no reported case of ritual killing in the state.
Anene also stressed that there is information or evidence about the existence of cannibals or human parts markets in the state.
“We don’t have intelligence reports of any human parts market in Benue.
“So we have not recorded any ritual killing; there are other crimes, but not this particular one.
Contrary to the news reports making rounds, the Benue State Police Command has said there is no record of ritual killings in the state.
debunking the purported report, the State Command Spokesperson, CSP Catherine Anene who spoke in Makurdi, noted that although there are other crimes, there is no reported case of ritual killing in the state.
Anene also stressed that there is information or evidence about the existence of cannibals or human parts markets in the state.
“We don’t have intelligence reports of any human parts market in Benue.
“So we have not recorded any ritual killing; there are other crimes, but not this particular one.
Contrary to the news reports making rounds, the Benue State Police Command has said there is no record of ritual killings in the state.
Debunking the purported report, the State Command Spokesperson, CSP Catherine Anene who spoke in Makurdi, noted that although there are other crimes, there is no reported case of ritual killing in the state.
Anene also stressed that there is information or evidence about the existence of cannibals or human parts markets in the state.
“We don’t have intelligence reports of any human parts market in Benue.
“So we have not recorded any ritual killing; there are other crimes, but not this particular one.
Published: March 3, 2025 By: EDIRI OYIBO – The News Guru, Nigeria
There has not been any record of ritual killing in Benue, the Police Command in the state has said.
The command’s Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Sewuese Anene, told NAN on Sunday in Makurdi that there was no intelligence report to that effect.
Anene, however, admitted that though other crimes to some extent still persisted in the state, there were no reported cases of ritual killings.
She also stressed that there was also no information or evidence about the existence of cannibals or human parts market in the state.
“We don’t have intelligence reports of the existence of any human parts market in Benue.
“So we have not really recorded any ritual killing, there are other crimes, but not this particular one. We are always on red alert,” she said.
According to Mr Terwase Shagbaor, Founder, Benue Patriotic Youths Movement, the people only hear and read about ritual killings in the media.
Shagbaor said the state was yet to record such heinous crimes.
He, therefore, encouraged Benue people, especially the youths, to steer clear of crime.
Also a motorcyclist, Agada Ogli, said that though his job entailed riding on the road day and night, he was yet to come across any suspected case of ritual killing in Benue.
Ogli, who also said motorcyclists often come across all kinds of crimes in the line of their duty, ritual killing was not one of them.
Published: March , 2025 By: dolotop– National Accord, Nigeria
There has not been any record of ritual killing in Benue, the Police Command in the state has said.
The command’s Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Sewuese Anene, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) , on Sunday in Makurdi that there was no intelligence report to that effect.
Anene, however, admitted that though other crimes to some extent still persisted in the state, there were no reported cases of ritual killings.
She also stressed that there was also no information or evidence about the existence of cannibals or human parts market in the state.
“We don’t have intelligence reports of the existence of any human parts market in Benue.
“So we have not really recorded any ritual killing, there are other crimes, but not this particular one. We are always on red alert,” she said.
According to Mr Terwase Shagbaor, Founder, Benue Patriotic Youths Movement, the people only hear and read about ritual killings in the media.
Shagbaor said the state was yet to record such heinous crimes.
He, therefore, encouraged Benue people, especially the youths, to steer clear of crime.
Also a motorcyclist, Agada Ogli, said that though his job entailed riding on the road day and night, he was yet to come across any suspected case of ritual killing in Benue.
Ogli, who also said motorcyclists often come across all kinds of crimes in the line of their duty, ritual killing was not one of them. (NAN)
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.”
