The Lagos State Police Command has confirmed that the five bodies recovered along the Oreta riverbank in the Igbogbo community, Ikorodu Local Government Area, were victims of a cult-related attack.
Panic gripped the community on Wednesday when residents discovered the lifeless bodies of young men by the riverside. A short video clip, less than 30 seconds long, showed some of the corpses sprawled along the riverbank. One of the deceased was seen facedown in a blue hoodie, while another, clad in a black-and-white shirt, lay in a pool of blood.
The killings add to a series of cult-related incidents across Lagos, which police say have so far led to the arrest of more than 26 suspects.
On Saturday, the state Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Jimoh, confirmed the incident was cult-related, adding that investigations were ongoing.
“That is why we are investigating. We recovered the bodies and sent scene-of-crime experts to the place. The team has briefed me, and further directives have been given on areas to cover. We will make the outcome of the investigation public,” he said.
Jimoh explained that specialised anti-cultism units had been deployed across all area commands in the state, alongside a central squad at the command headquarters, to combat the menace.
“I have created anti-cultism groups in every area command. Parents and guardians must also caution their children against cultism, as we are witnessing frequent attacks and counterattacks,” the police chief stated.
According to him, constant patrols in Ikorodu and other flashpoints had helped curb the violence. He added that the Coast Strike Force had been deployed to Lekki and other coastal areas to ensure safety.
“The five bodies we recovered are linked to cult violence. After the arrest of 26 suspects, more arrests have been made, and the operations are ongoing,” he said.
Jimoh also noted that cultism was no longer limited to idle or unemployed youths, pointing out that artisans and other professionals were increasingly being recruited into such groups.
He cited the successful anti-cultism operation in Mushin, which suppressed violent clashes to “zero level,” stressing that similar strategies were now being applied in Ikorodu.
“All residents should go about their lawful businesses, as everything is under control,” he assured.
The violence in Oreta occurred just a day after a man was gruesomely killed in Bayeku, another Ikorodu community.
Reacting to the spate of killings, the Executive Chairman of Igbogbo/Baiyeku LCDA, Hammed Aroyewun, described the Oreta incident as one that shook the community and heightened safety concerns. He said the council responded swiftly to reassure residents.
Earlier in the week, three suspected cultists were also murdered during a festival on Lagos Island, further raising concerns over the resurgence of cult violence in the state.
