Daud Olatunji
In a recent revelation, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun unveils the reasons behind the continued existence of houses harbouring suspected cultists in Sagamu, despite the state’s commitment to eradicating cultism in the town and its surroundings.
Sagamu has experienced a surge in cult-related violence over the past three years, resulting in loss of life, injuries, and property damage.
The governor disclosed that when the government attempted to demolish these houses, landlords rushed to plead for their properties to be spared, claiming they were unaware of their tenants’ involvement in cult activities.
However, Governor Abiodun hinted at impending legislation that would impose the death penalty on individuals engaged in cultism.
Expressing shock at the wanton destruction of lives and peace in Sagamu, Governor Abiodun emphasized that the government would not tolerate unscrupulous individuals disrupting peace in any part of the state.
He called upon traditional rulers to provide intelligence on criminal gangs in their domains, emphasizing that cultists are not elusive entities but individuals living within communities.
“We will rely on our ‘kabiyesis’ because they are the closest to the grassroots for intelligence support. These people are not spirits. They live with us; they are tenants in our houses,” Governor Abiodun stated.
The governor’s resolve to demolish houses connected to criminal activities has been hindered by unsuspecting landlords who, upon discovering their tenants’ involvement in cultism or kidnapping, plead for leniency.
However, Governor Abiodun expressed sympathy for the law-abiding citizens of Sagamu and vowed to bring those responsible for the ongoing violence to justice.
Governor Abiodun also announced his intention to relocate key security officials to Sagamu and redefine the terminology used for these criminals, referring to them as murderers rather than cultists, and promising punishments commensurate with their actions.
Oba Babatunde Ajayi, the Paramount Ruler of Remoland, decried the ongoing destruction of lives and property in Sagamu and called for the deployment of mobile police and military units to maintain law and order in the town.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Security, Assistant Inspector General of Police Olusola Subair (rtd), and Consultant on Security, retired Commissioner for Police Awolowo Ajogun, traced the roots of the recent clash to a land transaction dispute and confirmed that eight people were killed while nine suspects were arrested and under investigation in connection with the incident.
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