A Special Anti-Cultism Court in Isabo, Abeokuta, has sentenced two men to seven years’ imprisonment each for conspiracy and membership of unlawful societies, marking a significant step in Ogun State’s ongoing efforts to combat cultism. The convicts, Moruf Okusanya, 40, and Babatunde Gafar, 33, were found guilty on Wednesday following a trial that lasted several weeks. Both men were charged with four counts under the Ogun State Prohibition of Forcible Entry and Occupation of Landed Properties, Armed Robbery, Cultism, Kidnapping and Other Anti-Violent and Related Offences Law of 2016.
The court, presided over by Magistrate O.L. Oke, ruled that the prosecution had proven its case beyond reasonable doubt. In delivering the judgment, the magistrate emphasized the credibility and sufficiency of the evidence presented, which included testimonies and physical exhibits from the scene of the incident. He imposed a seven-year prison term on each defendant without the option of paying a fine, underscoring the seriousness of their offences.
Okusanya and Gafar were arrested during a violent clash between rival cult groups at the Ikenne Town Hall on October 23, 2023. According to ASP Olaide Rawlings, the prosecutor, the defendants conspired with others—some still at large—to belong to unlawful societies. She revealed that Okusanya is affiliated with the Eiye Confraternity, while Gafar belongs to the Alora Confraternity. These groups have been linked to various acts of violence and intimidation across the region.
The prosecutor highlighted that the confrontation disrupted normal activities at the town hall and posed a direct threat to public peace and safety. The offences committed violated Sections 34, 36, 45(b), and 70 of the state’s anti-violent crimes law, which specifically targets cult-related activities and membership in unauthorized secret societies. The court noted that such actions undermine societal order and must be deterred through strict enforcement.
This sentencing sends a clear message to other suspected cultists in Ogun State and beyond that criminal involvement in cult activities will not be tolerated. Authorities continue to intensify operations against cult-related violence, particularly in areas like Ikenne where such incidents are frequently reported. The case reinforces the government’s commitment to ensuring security and stability in communities affected by cultism. As more cases come to trial, the judiciary remains a key pillar in Nigeria’s fight against organized youth violence.
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