“I Bought Two Legs for N20,000” – Ritualist Confesses
Ifasoji Ayangbesan, a 35-year-old herbalist, has been arrested in connection with the killing and mutilation of Oyindamola Adeyemi in Ogun
Ayangbesan is accused of buying the victim’s legs for ₦20,000 ($50) and of presenting a bribe of ₦1 million to local police officers in an attempt to avoid arrest.
Ayangbesan denied being involved in Adeyemi’s death and claimed that he did not know how to perform rituals for money.
Instead, he said that a friend had referred him to a man in Oye who instructed him in the rituals.
He added that he was then given the legs to use as a herbalist, which he burnt before being arrested.
Ayangbesan was arrested shortly before returning to his home following a trip to Ajah.
After hearing from his daughter that police had visited his house looking for him, Ayangbesan took the legs and left. He claimed that he received no help or advice from the police.
Speaking to press, a lawyer said she believed that Ayangbesan was innocent and had been falsely accused.
She added that the case would have negative implications for traditional healers and herbalists in Nigeria.
Police in Ogun state have said that they are continuing to investigate Adeyemi’s murder and that they are determined to bring those responsible to justice.
The murder has drawn widespread attention in Nigeria, with many calling on the government to take action to protect the public from such crimes.
The case has highlighted the vulnerability of people who practice traditional medicine in Nigeria.
Many have pointed out that the lack of regulation in the sector makes it difficult for authorities to distinguish between legitimate practitioners and those involved in criminal activities, such as killing and mutilation.
Meanwhile, Ayangbesan remains in custody pending further investigations. His supporters have called for his release, claiming he’s being used as scapegoat by police who cannot solve the case.
