The Ogun State Police Command has detained a trainee herbalist, identified as Ifagbenga Taiwo, for allegedly killing his 41-day-old son, Ifakorede Ajani, in a suspected ritual murder. The incident occurred on Monday in the Keesi area of Adatan, Abeokuta, Ogun State’s capital.
The Incident
The tragic event unfolded when the baby’s mother, Raimat Wasilat, stepped outside their home to wash clothes, leaving the infant on a bed. Upon her return, she discovered her son lying lifeless, with his throat gruesomely slit.
Witnesses in the area reported the horrifying incident, which has shocked the community. A video obtained from the scene showed residents gathered at the family’s home, visibly shaken by the gruesome discovery.
Mrs. Adewumi, a neighbor who recounted the incident in the video, explained, “I heard some noise and came to this house to check what was happening. When we entered the room, we realized someone had entered through the window, slit the baby’s throat, and left him in a pool of blood.” She pointed out the wooden window through which the suspected assailant is believed to have gained entry.
Community Reaction
The infant’s grandfather, Mukaila Olaide, described how he and other family members were alerted by the mother’s cries. “We were sitting a short distance away when we heard the noise. We rushed to the house, only to find that the boy had been slaughtered. The sight was horrifying,” he said.
Olaide added that both the mother and father were taken into custody by the police for questioning. The incident has left the entire community in shock and mourning.
Police Response
The state Police Public Relations Officer, Omolola Odutola, confirmed the arrest of Ifagbenga Taiwo after the mother accused him of being behind the act. According to Odutola, the police were notified around 2 PM on Monday about the slaughter of the infant.
“Upon receiving the report, officers responded to the Iteesi Itoko area where the incident occurred. The infant’s mother, Raimat Wasilat, alleged that her husband, a trainee herbalist, committed the act with the intention of using the baby’s blood for rituals,” Odutola said.
The police immediately detained Taiwo, investigated the crime scene, and transported the child’s body to a hospital for an autopsy. Odutola assured the public that the police are conducting a thorough investigation to uncover the truth behind the horrific act.
Ritual Motive Suspected
Preliminary reports suggest that the suspect may have been motivated by ritualistic purposes, given his occupation as a trainee herbalist. Ritual murders are a troubling phenomenon in parts of Nigeria, often involving the killing of individuals to use their body parts for supposed spiritual or economic gains.
Community Plea for Justice
Residents of the Keesi area have expressed outrage and demanded swift justice for the murdered infant. Many neighbors described the incident as one of the most heinous crimes they had ever witnessed.
“We want the authorities to ensure that justice is served and that such a tragedy never happens again in our community,” said a resident who wished to remain anonymous.
Investigation Continues
The police have assured the public that a detailed investigation is underway to unravel the circumstances surrounding the incident. Forensic evidence, witness accounts, and the autopsy report will play a crucial role in determining the sequence of events and establishing the suspect’s culpability.
As the community mourns the loss of an innocent child, the authorities are under pressure to ensure that justice is served, and the case serves as a deterrent to others who might consider similar heinous acts.
