Encouraging community leaders and traditional institutions to step up in the battle against ritual killings is crucial, according to the Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi.
In a statement released on X.com, Adejobi stressed the urgent need for joint efforts in addressing the escalating incidents of ritualistic murders that have left countless families in despair.
Highlighting the successful collaboration with traditional institutions in tackling the Badoo rituals in Ikorodu, Lagos, Adejobi underlined the importance of involving community leaders and traditional institutions in the fight against ritual killings, recognizing it as a spiritual issue demanding a comprehensive approach.
He expressed, “I believe that our community leaders and traditional institutions should be actively engaged and take decisive action against this menace.
“We employed a similar strategy when combatting Badoo rituals in Ikorodu, Lagos. Without the interest or involvement of the traditional institution, we cannot effectively curb it because it is more of a spiritual matter than a legal or physical one.
“Law enforcement agencies in these regions and states must involve leaders and traditional institutions in the battle against this issue.
Additionally, the police spokesperson called for specific legislation to address ritual killings separately from murder cases.
He contended that ritual killings constitute a crime involving both murder, disrespect to the deceased, and ritualistic practices.
He further stated, “There should be distinct legislation for ritual killings, not just lumping them under regular murder cases. Ritual killing combines murder, desecration of the body, and ritual practices, warranting unique punishments.”