Yoruba elders decry rising ritual killings in South West

Yoruba elders, under the banner of the Kaaro Oojiire ÌmÍ Oodua Foundation (KOOOF), have expressed deep concern over the alarming increase in ritual killings and body parts harvesting in the South West region.

In a statement released by the foundation’s Vice President and Diaspora Counsel, Gbenga Adewusi, the elders lamented the regularity of these gruesome acts, which they described as a disgrace to Yoruba heritage.

Adewusi stated, “The recurrence of human rituals in the South West is a shameful trend that must no longer be ignored or trivialized by stakeholders in Yoruba land. The disturbing regularity of these heinous acts, coupled with the diversity of those involved—from teenagers to religious leaders—makes it imperative to act swiftly.”

He warned that the unchecked rise in such activities could threaten the peace, stability, and economic progress of the region, as no investor would feel secure in a society plagued by such brutal crimes.

Recent evidence, Adewusi noted, shows that perpetrators have included individuals across various religious affiliations, from Muslim clerics to Christian pastors. However, he emphasized that this reality does not absolve the Yoruba community from addressing the menace, as the offenders are often indigenous to the South West.

The elders condemned the stereotype that traditional Yoruba religious practitioners are responsible for ritual killings. They categorically stated that such acts have no basis in authentic Yoruba tradition.

KOOOF maintains that there is no such thing as ‘money rituals’ in true Yoruba culture. Those engaging in these barbaric acts are not practicing the genuine Yoruba way of life, the statement read.

The group called for immediate and decisive action from stakeholders, including government, religious bodies, and community leaders, to eradicate this growing menace and protect the dignity of the Yoruba people.