Stakeholders across the Southeast, including security agencies, legal experts, and community leaders, have expressed deep concern over the rising cases of ritual killings in the region, linking the menace to the growing “get-rich-quick” mentality among youths.
The surge in ritual-related crimes, alongside armed robbery, kidnapping, and cultism, has prompted state governments to strengthen security measures. In Anambra, Governor Charles Soludo launched the Homeland Security Law and introduced operations Udogachi and Agunechemba to combat crime. Security agencies are working closely with citizens to identify and arrest suspected criminals.
Anambra Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, described ritual killings as a deeply disturbing crime driven by the belief in human sacrifice for wealth and fortification. He emphasized the importance of public cooperation in providing intelligence, which recently led to the crackdown on some native doctors suspected of involvement.
Mrs. Rachel Yohanna of Davina Care Foundation identified poverty, unemployment, and peer pressure as key factors fuelling the crime. She urged parents to instil strong moral values in their children to curb the desperation for wealth at any cost.
Dr. Helen Obi, a legal expert, blamed social media and societal glorification of wealth for worsening the situation. She noted that religious and community leaders often celebrate individuals without questioning their sources of income.
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In response, Anambra State enacted the Homeland Security Law 2025 to tackle ritual killings and fraudulent spiritual practices. The law prescribes a 25-year prison sentence without an option of fine for anyone found guilty of performing or facilitating human rituals.
While police authorities in Ebonyi and Enugu states reported no official records of ritual killings, community members insist the crime exists, often going unreported. Ebonyi Police Spokesperson, SP Joshua Ukandu, stressed the need for traditional rulers to play a more active role in discouraging the practice, while legal practitioner Mr. Mathew Unakwe called for stricter enforcement of existing laws.
Dr. George Akubue of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, criticized the unchecked celebration of sudden wealth in communities. He urged traditional rulers to vet individuals before granting them chieftaincy titles, warning that failure to act could lead to a further rise in ritual-related crimes.
Human rights activist Mr. Samuel Ike emphasized the urgent need for security agencies to intensify raids on suspected hideouts and for the establishment of a Special Court to fast-track the prosecution of ritual killing suspects.
With the increasing calls for decisive action, stakeholders remain hopeful that coordinated efforts between government, security agencies, and community leaders will help curb the growing threat of ritual killings in the South East.
NAN
