In the early hours of January 21, 2025, the Ogun State Community, Social Orientation, and Safety Corps (So-Safe Corps) apprehended 54-year-old ex-convict Adelani Oriyomi at a burial ground in Kere, Obada-Oko, Ewekoro Local Government Area. Oriyomi was allegedly caught exhuming a human skull, an act he confessed was intended for a money ritual known as Osole.
According to Commander (Dr.) Soji Ganzallo, officers on routine patrol observed Oriyomi’s suspicious behavior near a church. Initially attempting to conceal himself, Oriyomi resumed digging once he believed the area was clear. The vigilant officers returned promptly, apprehending him before he could flee.
During interrogation, Oriyomi, a resident of Kere, Obada-Oko, admitted to exhuming a human skull on January 18, 2025, which he had hidden in his room. He revealed plans to retrieve another skull to complete the ritual. Oriyomi also disclosed a history of similar offenses, having sold nearly ten skulls in the past. His criminal record includes two years of imprisonment for prior ritual-related crimes in Ado-Odo and an additional six years and nine months at the Oba Correctional Center following another conviction in Obada-Oko.
The recovered human skull and the suspect have been handed over to the Nigeria Police Force at the Obada Divisional Headquarters for further investigation and potential prosecution. Commander Ganzallo urged community leaders to exercise vigilance, emphasizing that thorough screening of tenants and visitors can significantly enhance home security.
This incident highlights growing concerns over the prevalence of ritual-related crimes in Ogun State. In response to the increasing occurrences of such heinous acts, the Ogun State government is contemplating stringent measures. The State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Oluwasina Ogungbade (SAN), indicated that the government is considering signing death warrants for condemned criminals to curb activities like ritual killings, kidnapping, and cultism. He emphasized the government’s commitment to implementing the law to address the upsurge in these crimes.
The arrest of Oriyomi serves as a stark reminder of the persistent issue of ritual killings in Nigeria. Authorities continue to grapple with these challenges, striving to ensure the safety and security of communities across the nation.
