Ritual Killings: A Wake-up Call For Nigeria’s Authorities -By Abdulsalam Mubarak Adio

We mustn’t forget that God, in His infinite wisdom, gifted humanity with the ability to choose, whether to use our minds for good or bad. Sadly, in Nigeria, it seems some have chosen the latter. The division of the world into continents and nations should make it easier to govern, but somehow, it appears the authorities are asleep at the wheel.

Talking about Nigeria, my beloved nation. Over the years, it has become clear that while Nigeria claims to be a secular society, the negligence and hypocrisy of the government have left us vulnerable to escalating religious extremism. While our Constitution grants every citizen the right to believe in any religion, we’ve seen that certain practices have gone unchecked and unpunished.

What concerns me the most is the blatant and unrelenting rise in ritual killings. Yes, the once-popular threats of kidnapping and terrorism are recognized by the government as national issues. But strangely, ritual killings – those heinous acts carried out in the name of spiritual beliefs – are not receiving the same level of scrutiny.

Truth be told, no religion, be it Islam, Christianity, or any other, endorses violence or criminality. Yet, there are those who exploit these religions for personal gain and, tragically, it is the innocent who bear the consequences. This surge in ritual killings began when certain religious figures, previously struggling with their own livelihoods, began flaunting unexplained wealth. In any sane country, it would be inconceivable to amass such riches without an in-depth investigation by the relevant authorities. But in Nigeria? These same figures continue to operate freely, holding large-scale events with no government oversight, and manipulating the faith of the people for their benefit.

The situation has taken a disturbing turn as our youth become more involved. Only months ago, a young pastor in Nasarawa State killed a female friend for money rituals, and now, this week, a Muslim cleric (an Alfa) from Kwara State has committed the same grotesque act. The pattern is undeniable and it’s tragic.

So, what now? Where is the government in all of this? Isn’t it time for the authorities to take a long, hard look at this dangerous trend? The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) must broaden its focus to include religious organizations that are flourishing in untraceable wealth. No Nigerian should be allowed to amass money without explanation. This unchecked financial freedom is eroding our economy and society.

At its core, the unchecked wealth of religious clerics is symptomatic of a deeper societal problem. Many of these clerics, whether directly or indirectly, contribute to the national security threat by either engaging in ritualistic violence or indirectly supporting fraud and cybercrime in the name of religion. The ramifications of these actions are enormous and cannot be ignored.

Lastly, I implore the government to issue death warrants for those guilty of unjustly killing, as soon as investigations are concluded. This will serve as a stern warning to any would-be criminals and in an instant, restore peace and order to our nation, because nothing promotes harmony like swift, irreversible justice.

For the sake of a peaceful, united, and prosperous Nigeria, I call on all concerned stakeholders – government, law enforcement, and religious institutions – to come together and curb the rise of these heinous practices. The time for action is now.

President, Peaceway Youth Initiative

An initiative committed to empowering Nigerian youths through information, advocacy and service.