Eight Arraigned in Owo Over Cult-Related Killings

Kehinde Fajobi

Eight individuals have been arraigned before an Akure Magistrate Court in connection with cult-related killings in Owo, Ondo State, earlier this month.

Among the five victims were a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Fisayo Oladipo, as well as a mother and her child.

To prevent further violence, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa imposed a dawn-to-dusk curfew in the affected area.

The suspects, identified as Ogunseyila Oladimeji (28), Olabode Ojo alias Popo (30), Adeola Bero (30), Olayemi Ayodele (20), Ijalade Femi, Ijarotimi Taye (42), Bisi Gbenga (25), and Esther Gbenga (20), face charges of conspiracy, cultism, murder, illegal possession of firearms, and stolen vehicles.

Police Prosecutor, Inspector Nelson Akintimehin, told the court that the offences occurred on January 6, 7, and 8, 2025, around 10:30 a.m. in Owo.

Akintimehin alleged that the defendants were members of the Alora and Aye secret cults, with Ojo and Bero found in possession of a double-barrelled gun and nine cartridges.

The prosecutor argued that the charges contravened Sections 516, 319, and 430 of the Ondo State Criminal Law of 2006, as well as Section 1(1) and (2) of the Secret Cults and Similar Activities (Prohibition) Laws of Ondo State, 2006.

Due to the court’s lack of jurisdiction, the suspects’ pleas were not taken.

Akintimehin requested that they be remanded at the Olokuta Correctional Centre, pending advice from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).

Defence counsel, led by Danial Onu, requested an adjournment to file counter-affidavits. Presiding Magistrate Sunday Adedapo adjourned the case to January 28, 2025.

The court granted bail to Bisi and Esther Gbenga in the sum of ₦500,000 each with a surety in like sum.

The remaining defendants were ordered to remain in police custody until the next hearing.