Ritual murders are not a recent phenomenon in Kogi State, Nigeria. See my previous posts (using the dropdown menu – under ‘African countries’ – in the heading of this site will give access to all posts on Nigeria).
Austin Okai, a former Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, House of Representatives candidate for Dekina/Bassa Federal Constituency of Kogi State, has spoken urging law enforcement agencies and traditional rulers in Igala land to address the rising tide of ritual killings and human trafficking in the area. Recently a spike in ritual killings has been reported, creating an alarming situation in particular in Dekina LGA (local government area) of the state.
Some information on Kogi State where it all happens..
Kofi State is located in the North Central geopolitical zone of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The Federal Republic of Nigeria is divided into six geopolitical zones commonly called zones.
Kogi State is an inland state. With a surface area of 29,833 km2 it ranks 13th (out of 36 states – excluding the Federal Territory of Abuja where the seat of the federal government is located). In 2023 its populations was estimated ar some 5 million people, resulting in a 25th place in states by population.
Kogi State’s population consists of various ethnic groups, including the Igala, Ebira, Gbagyi, and subgroups of the Nupe in the state’s center; the Igala (most dominant in the east), Agate, Basa-Komo and Idiom in the east, and various Yoruba subgroups in the west and central part of the state. (source: Wikipedia).
It is interesting to note that Austin Okai openly linked the so-called ‘Yahoo Yahoo Boys’ to the criminal acts of ritual murders and trade in human parts.
‘Yahoo Yahoo boys’ refers to Nigerians engaged in internet fraud.
(webmaster FVDK).
Ritual Killings, Human Parts Business Have Taken Over Igala Land – Okai Says
Published: October 12, 2024
By: Samuel – Tori news, Nigeria
Recent reports indicate a rise in cases of ritual killings in the area, with dead bodies exhumed from burial grounds and women brutally murdered and their body parts removed for sinister purposes.
On Saturday, Austin Okai, a former Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, House of Representatives candidate for Dekina/Bassa Federal Constituency of Kogi State, urged law enforcement agencies and traditional rulers in Igala land to address the rising tide of ritual killings and human trafficking in the area.
Recent reports indicate a rise in cases of ritual killings in the area, with dead bodies exhumed from burial grounds and women brutally murdered and their body parts removed for sinister purposes.
Okai said the alarming situation, which is particularly prevalent in Dekina LGA of the state, raises urgent concerns about the safety and security of Igala communities.
In a statement he signed, Okai said the emergence of human parts trading has become a horrifying reality in Kogi East, with the notorious activities of ‘Yahoo Yahoo’ boys— individuals engaged in internet fraud — escalating into something far more sinister.
He said: “What was once viewed as a mere criminal enterprise has morphed into a grave threat to life and dignity, as these individuals increasingly resort to ritualistic practices to enhance their illicit gains.
“The abominable acts now dominating Igala land demand immediate attention and action from all stakeholders.
“It is imperative to recognize that the government holds the enforcement power necessary to address this crisis. Law enforcement agencies must be mobilized to investigate these heinous crimes, apprehend the perpetrators, and restore a sense of safety within our communities.
“The government must prioritize the establishment of a robust security framework that not only deters these criminal activities but also fosters trust and cooperation between law enforcement and the communities they serve.
“However, government action alone is insufficient. Parents and guardians must awaken to the reality that the allure of quick wealth is leading many young people down a perilous path.
“The romanticization of internet fraud and the pursuit of easy money have dire consequences, as they draw our youth into a world where human life is devalued.
“It is crucial for families to engage in open conversations about the dangers of such lifestyles, promoting values of hard work, integrity, and respect for human life.”
Okai said community leaders, traditional rulers and religious institutions also have a vital role to play in combating the menace.
He said they must come together to condemn these practices and educate the public about the dangers of ritual killings and human trafficking, and provide support for victims and their families.
Okai added: “Creating awareness about the psychological and social impacts of these crimes can help foster a community that stands united against such atrocities.
“The time for action is now. We must not allow fear to paralyze us or silence our voices. It is our collective responsibility to protect our communities and ensure that the sanctity of life is upheld. By working together—government, families, community leaders, and citizens—we can combat the rising tide of ritual killings and human trafficking in Igala land.
“Let us reclaim our communities from the clutches of these abominable acts and foster a safer, more secure environment for all. The future of our children and the integrity of our land depend on it.”
Source: Ritual Killings, Human Parts Business Have Taken Over Igala Land – Okay Says
Alnother Nigeria newspaper, Gist Mania, reported the same news, with an identical text:
Former Kogi PDP Candidate Calls For Urgent Action Against Ritual Killings & Human Trafficking
Published: October 12, 2024
By: Mister Jay Wonder – Gist Mania, Nigeria
Austin Okai, a former candidate for the House of Representatives from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kogi State, has called on law enforcement agencies and traditional leaders in Igala land to tackle the alarming rise in ritual killings and human trafficking in the region.
Speaking on Saturday, Okai highlighted the disturbing trend of ritual murders, citing recent reports of exhumed bodies and the brutal killing of women for their body parts. He expressed grave concerns for the safety and security of communities within Dekina Local Government Area, where these incidents are particularly prevalent.
In a statement he released, Okai described the emergence of a grisly trade in human parts as a horrifying reality in Kogi East. He noted that the notorious activities of individuals involved in internet fraud, popularly known as “Yahoo Yahoo boys,” have escalated into something far more sinister.
“What was once considered a mere criminal enterprise has evolved into a serious threat to life and dignity, as these individuals are increasingly engaging in ritualistic practices to boost their illicit profits,” Okai said. He urged immediate action from all stakeholders, emphasizing that the government has the power to combat this crisis.
He called for law enforcement to investigate these heinous crimes, apprehend those responsible, and restore safety to the communities. Okai stressed that a robust security framework is essential for deterring criminal activities while fostering trust between law enforcement and the public.
However, he warned that government action alone is not enough. Parents and guardians must recognize the dangers of the allure of quick wealth, which he said is leading many young people into perilous lifestyles. “The romanticization of internet fraud and the pursuit of easy money can have dire consequences, devaluing human life,” he cautioned.
Okai also urged community leaders, traditional rulers, and religious institutions to unite against these practices. He emphasized the importance of condemning ritual killings and human trafficking, educating the public about their dangers, and providing support for victims and their families.
“The time for action is now,” Okai stated. “We cannot allow fear to silence us. It is our collective responsibility to protect our communities and uphold the sanctity of life. By working together—government, families, community leaders, and citizens—we can combat the rising tide of ritual killings and human trafficking in Igala land.”
Okai concluded by calling for a unified effort to reclaim communities from these atrocities and to create a safer environment for future generations. “The future of our children and the integrity of our land depend on it.”
Source: Former Kogi PDP Candidate Calls For Urgent Action Against Ritual Killings & Human Trafficking
