Kwara Assembly Moves to Curb Ritual Killings, Calls for Tougher Enforcement, Public Awareness

The Kwara State House of Assembly has raised alarm over the growing cases of ritual killings in the state, calling for stricter enforcement of the law prohibiting dealings in human body parts. Lawmakers urged Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq to strengthen security measures and launch an intensive public awareness campaign to curb the menace.

During Tuesday’s plenary session, Speaker Rt. Hon. Yakubu Danladi Salihu presided over discussions, where legislators expressed concerns about the increasing number of ritual-related murders, particularly targeting women.

Hon. Rukayat Motunrayo Shittu (Owode/Onire), who led the debate, condemned the rise of money rituals, describing it as a grave threat to public safety. She lamented that ignorance, desperation, and misguided beliefs in supernatural powers had fueled the killing of innocent victims.

“The obsession with quick wealth has driven some individuals to commit horrific crimes, preying on innocent people, especially women, whose body parts are harvested for ritual purposes,” she stated.

Supporting the motion, Hon. Owolabi Olatunde Razaq (Share/Oke-Ode) and Hon. Arinola Fatimah Lawal (Ilorin East) emphasized the need for continuous public sensitization and improved law enforcement.

The Assembly resolved to urge the state government to engage traditional rulers, religious leaders, and security agencies in a coordinated effort to discourage ritual killings. Lawmakers also recommended the creation of a platform where residents can report suspected cases of human trafficking and ritual activities.

Additionally, they advised young people to exercise caution in online interactions and promptly report suspicious engagements to security operatives.

Meanwhile, the Assembly acknowledged a letter from Governor AbdulRazaq requesting legislative consideration for amendments to the Kwara State Education Trust Fund Bill 2025. Speaker Danladi Salihu referred the bill to the Business and Rules Committee for further legislative action.

The plenary also had in attendance students and lecturers from Royalseeds High School and the Law Department of the Kwara State College of Arabic and Islamic Legal Studies, Ilorin, who observed the proceedings.

Following deliberations, the session was adjourned on a motion moved by Hon. Abdulraheem Medinat Motunrayo (Lanwa/Ejidongari) and seconded by Hon. Omotosho Olakunle Razak (Isin).

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