The Ekiti State Police Command has arrested a 23-year-old man, Solomon Fabiyi, for attempting to use his seven-year-old nephew, Jomiloju, for a money ritual. The shocking incident, which was thwarted before it could be carried out, has sparked concerns over the growing trend of ritual-related crimes in Nigeria.
Police Arrest Fabiyi Before Ritual Could Take Place
According to the State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Sunday Abutu, Fabiyi was arrested on Friday, February 14, 2025, at around 7:00 PM after a tip-off led officers to intervene. He was caught just as he was about to proceed with the ritual.
Fabiyi, who lived with his parents and the victim at Goshen Avenue, Adebayo Area, Ado-Ekiti, confessed to the crime immediately after his arrest.
“He was arrested by our operatives on Friday, February 14, 2025, at about 19:00 hrs through a tip-off while he was on the verge of using his nephew for a money ritual.
“The suspect confessed to the crime and has been arraigned,” Abutu stated.
The Ritual Plan: How Fabiyi Was Caught
A viral video circulating on social media shows Fabiyi admitting to planning the ritual and detailing how he was instructed by a local herbalist to find someone for the sacrifice.
- The herbalist reportedly assured him that the victim would not die but would suffer from a serious ailment for the rest of his life.
- Fabiyi, believing in the supernatural financial benefits, proceeded to offer his own nephew for the ritual.
However, in an unexpected twist, the herbalist—rather than performing the ritual—alerted the police when Fabiyi brought the child to be used for the sacrifice.
Why Did the Herbalist Report Fabiyi?
While it remains unclear why the herbalist decided to inform the police, speculation suggests that:
- He may have had a change of heart, realizing the gruesome nature of the request.
- He may have feared legal consequences, knowing that law enforcement was cracking down on ritualistic crimes.
- He may have been working as an informant, assisting the police in uncovering such cases.
The police have not yet confirmed whether the herbalist will face charges or if he will serve as a witness in the case against Fabiyi.
Legal Actions and Ongoing Investigations
Following his arrest and confession, Fabiyi has been arraigned in court, though details of the charges and potential sentencing remain undisclosed.
Authorities are also investigating whether Fabiyi had prior involvement in ritual-related activities or whether this was his first attempt.
Community Reaction: Growing Fear of Ritual Crimes
The disturbing incident has triggered widespread outrage in the Ado-Ekiti community and beyond, with many expressing concerns over the increasing number of ritual-related crimes targeting children and family members.
Several community leaders and religious organizations have spoken out, calling for:
- Stricter laws and harsher penalties for those involved in ritual-related crimes.
- Increased security and public awareness campaigns to educate citizens about the dangers of ritual killings.
- Greater scrutiny of traditional and spiritual practices that promote the belief in using human sacrifices for wealth.
A local resident, Mrs. Funmilayo Adebayo, described the situation as alarming and heartbreaking.
“What kind of desperation would push a man to want to sacrifice his own blood? These things are getting out of hand. The government needs to act fast before it gets worse.”
What Happens Next?
- The Ekiti State Police Command is expected to release more details as the investigation unfolds.
- Fabiyi’s court proceedings will determine his fate, with a possible lengthy prison sentence if convicted.
- Authorities are monitoring the herbalist’s role in the case, with a decision pending on whether he will face prosecution or serve as a witness.
As law enforcement continues its clampdown on ritual-related crimes, the case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of unchecked desperation for wealth and the dark practices that continue to threaten vulnerable members of society.
