Police Nab 14 Suspected Cultists in Ogun, Recover Firearms and Charms

Ogun State Police Command has apprehended 14 individuals suspected of belonging to the Eiye Confraternity during a targeted raid in the Isara, Ipara, and Ode areas. The operation, which took place on January 24, 2026, led to the recovery of several weapons and items linked to cult activities, as authorities continue their crackdown on secret societies disrupting public peace.

The arrests followed intelligence reports indicating that the group had assembled in a bush in Ipara-Remo for an initiation ceremony and to plot actions that could threaten security. A joint team comprising the Anti-Cultism Unit, Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT), and local divisions from Ipara and Isara swooped in, detaining 13 men and one woman.

Among the items seized were three locally made pistols, 11 live cartridges, four rounds of 9mm Beretta ammunition, criminal charms, confraternity caps, and a drum believed to be used in rituals. Police also recovered 19 mobile phones, a Samsung mini laptop, and nine vehicles—some without registration numbers and others bearing unauthorized dealer plates.

In a statement released on Saturday in Abeokuta, Police Public Relations Officer DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi confirmed the details, noting that the suspects were nabbed for unlawful assembly and conspiracy to breach peace. The arrested persons include Solomon Shobamiwo (aka Solo Hot), Farooq Ogunsola, Toheeb Abolade, Balogun Williams, Ayodele Abdulkareem, Adedapo Ogunsanya, Toheeb Saka, Akpan Dara, Michael Olakemi, Habeeb Olayinka, Dapo Adeola, Adetunji Adeyemi, Henry Kingsley, and Nanso Blessing.

Babaseyi emphasized that investigations are ongoing, and the suspects will face court charges upon completion. This incident highlights the persistent issue of cultism in Ogun State, where similar operations have been ramped up in recent months to curb violence associated with rival groups.

Commissioner of Police CP Lanre Ogunlowo condemned the rise in cult-related crimes, urging youths to steer clear of such activities. He assured residents of the command’s dedication to protecting lives and property, calling on the public to report suspicious gatherings via emergency lines to aid intelligence-led policing.

Social media reactions on X have echoed support for the police action, with users praising the swift response amid growing concerns over insecurity in the region. Authorities believe this bust will deter further cult initiations, as Ogun remains a hotspot for confraternity clashes.

NaijaChoice News reports that cultism continues to plague Nigerian campuses and communities, with experts linking it to unemployment and peer pressure among the youth.