In a chilling development, the So-Safe Corps of Ogun State has apprehended a 54-year-old man, Adelani Oriyomi, for allegedly attempting to exhume a human skull in what is believed to be part of a ritual preparation. The suspect was arrested in the early hours of Tuesday at a tomb in Kere, Obada-Oko, Ewekoro Local Government Area, during a routine patrol by the corps.
Operatives of the State Community, Social Orientation, and Safety Corps, led by Commander Dr. Soji Ganzallo, had observed suspicious activity and apprehended Oriyomi as he tried to conceal his actions. The suspect had resumed digging the tomb after officers had passed by, and upon their return, he was caught in the act.
During questioning, Oriyomi admitted to attempting to exhume the skull for a ritual known as Osole, which involves using human remains for monetary gain. He further confessed to a history of similar criminal activities, including a previous conviction that had sent him to prison for two years for related offenses in Ado-Odo. Oriyomi was later sentenced to an additional six years and nine months at the Oba Correctional Center in connection with further crimes in Obada-Oko.
The suspect revealed that he had exhumed another skull earlier on January 18, 2025, which he had hidden in his residence. He claimed to have sold nearly ten skulls in the past as part of his involvement in ritualistic activities. The fully dried human skull recovered during his arrest has been handed over to the Nigeria Police Force for further investigation and possible prosecution.
Commander Ganzallo urged the public, especially community leaders, to be vigilant and thoroughly screen tenants and visitors to prevent the harboring of individuals involved in such heinous acts. The investigation into Oriyomi’s activities is ongoing as authorities continue to uncover the extent of his criminal endeavors.