Three suspected cultists have been remanded by a court in Lagos for their alleged involvement in the murder of a young man. The suspects, identified as Adekunle Lawal, 25, Kazeem Bello, 27, and Yusuf Ahmed, 29, were arraigned before Magistrate Oluwatoyin Oghre on a two-count charge of conspiracy and murder.
According to the prosecutor, the suspects and others at large conspired to commit the crime on May 15, 2021, at about 10 pm, at Oyebanjo Street, Ajegunle, Lagos. The victim, 22-year-old Musa Abdul, was said to have been attacked and killed with a machete by the suspects who are members of a cult group.
The prosecutor further stated that the offence is punishable under sections 411 and 223 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015. However, when the charges were read to the suspects, they pleaded not guilty.
The presiding magistrate subsequently ordered that the suspects be remanded in a correctional facility pending the outcome of the legal proceedings. She also adjourned the case till September 27, 2021, for trial.
The incidence of cultism and related crimes has been a growing concern in the country, particularly among the youth. It is important for law enforcement agencies to take decisive actions to curb the activities of these groups and bring justice to victims and their families.
It is also important for young people to resist the temptation of getting involved in cultism and other illegal activities. Instead, they should focus on their education and personal development, seek positive role models, and contribute positively to their communities. Suicide and self-harm should never be considered as an option, regardless of the circumstances. People who are struggling with mental health issues should seek help from trained professionals and support systems.
