The House of Representatives candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for Dekina/Bassa Federal Constituency in the 2023 elections, Austin Okai, has called on law enforcement agencies and traditional rulers in Igala land to address the rising tide of ritual killings and human trafficking.
Reports indicate a chilling trend of ritual killings, with dead bodies being exhumed from burial grounds and women being brutally murdered in the fields, their body parts removed for sinister purposes.
Okai, in a statement said this alarming situation, particularly prevalent in Dekina Local Government Area, raises urgent concerns about the safety and security of our communities.
The emergence of human parts trading has become a horrifying reality in Kogi East, with the notorious activities of “Yahoo Yahoo” boys—individuals engaged in internet fraud—escalating into something far more sinister.
What was once viewed as a mere criminal enterprise has morphed into a grave threat to life and dignity, as these individuals increasingly resort to ritualistic practices to enhance their illicit gains.
The abominable acts now dominating Igala land demand immediate attention and action from all stakeholders.
It is imperative to recognize that the government holds the enforcement power necessary to address this crisis. Law enforcement agencies must be mobilized to investigate these heinous crimes, apprehend the perpetrators, and restore a sense of safety within our communities.
The government must prioritize the establishment of a robust security framework that not only deters these criminal activities but also fosters trust and cooperation between law enforcement and the communities they serve.
However, government action alone is insufficient. Parents and guardians must awaken to the reality that the allure of quick wealth is leading many young people down a perilous path.
The romanticization of internet fraud and the pursuit of easy money have dire consequences, as they draw our youth into a world where human life is devalued.
It is crucial for families to engage in open conversations about the dangers of such lifestyles, promoting values of hard work, integrity, and respect for human life.
Community leaders, traditional rulers, and religious institutions also have a vital role to play in combating this menace.
They must come together to condemn these practices, educate the public about the dangers of ritual killings and human trafficking, and provide support for victims and their families.
Creating awareness about the psychological and social impacts of these crimes can help foster a community that stands united against such atrocities.
The time for action is now. We must not allow fear to paralyze us or silence our voices. It is our collective responsibility to protect our communities and ensure that the sanctity of life is upheld. By working together—government, families, community leaders, and citizens—we can combat the rising tide of ritual killings and human trafficking in Igala land.
Let us reclaim our communities from the clutches of these abominable acts and foster a safer, more secure environment for all. The future of our children and the integrity of our land depend on it.
