Austin Okai, a former House of Representatives candidate for the Dekina/Bassa Federal Constituency under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has raised alarm over the increasing cases of ritual killings and human part trafficking in Igala land, particularly in Dekina Local Government Area, Kogi East. Okai called on law enforcement agencies, community leaders, and traditional rulers to urgently address this growing menace, which is threatening the safety and integrity of the region.
According to Okai, disturbing reports have surfaced of bodies being exhumed from burial grounds and women being brutally murdered, their body parts removed for ritualistic purposes. The trade in human body parts, often linked to the activities of internet fraudsters known as ‘Yahoo Yahoo’ boys, has escalated, turning what was once a criminal enterprise into a grave threat to life and public safety.
In a strongly worded statement, Okai emphasized the need for immediate action, stating that the alarming situation has reached a critical point in Kogi East. He called on law enforcement agencies to investigate these heinous crimes, arrest the perpetrators, and restore a sense of security within the affected communities.
“This emergence of human parts trading has become a horrifying reality in Kogi East. What started as internet fraud has now transformed into ritualistic killings aimed at boosting criminal profits. This threat to life and dignity must be addressed with urgency,” Okai said.
He highlighted the government’s role in enforcing security and stressed the need for a robust security framework that not only combats these criminal activities but also fosters trust between law enforcement agencies and local communities.
Okai also warned of the societal consequences of glorifying fraudulent lifestyles, urging parents and guardians to educate their children on the dangers of pursuing quick wealth through illegal means. He stressed that families must instill values such as hard work, integrity, and respect for human life to prevent young people from being drawn into this perilous path.
Community leaders, traditional rulers, and religious institutions, he added, have a crucial role to play in combating the rise of ritual killings and human trafficking. These institutions must come together to condemn these practices, raise awareness, and offer support to victims and their families.
He concluded by urging all stakeholders to act now before the situation worsens, stating, “We cannot allow fear to silence us. It is our collective responsibility to protect our communities, uphold the sanctity of life, and ensure a safer future for our children. By working together, we can reclaim our land from these abominable acts.”
The rise in ritual killings and human trafficking has become a pressing issue in Igala land, and concerted efforts are needed to address this crisis and restore peace and safety to the region.
