The Ondo Police Command spokesperson, Olushola Ayanlade, on Wednesday, announced the arraignment of nine suspected cultists linked to recent violent clashes in Ondo City that resulted in the deaths of two individuals.
The development follows a previous arrest of 46 suspects during a coordinated anti-cult operation by the state command.
Ayanlade said the screening and identification processes led to the arraignment of nine individuals before the Chief Magistrate Court of Ondo State in Akure.
The suspects identified as Akinrimade Ayomide (23), Olanrewaju Adejuwon (31), Kunle Johnson (29), Sodiq Ibrahim (25), Franklin Akinrinsola (29), Adebusoye Sunkanmi (30), Fadayomi Ayoola (45), Akingbesote Eric (31), and Akomoleyin Akin (29) are facing a six-count charge related to cultism, homicide, and illegal possession of firearms.
The charges brought against them include:
“Conspiracy to commit a felony, including cultism, murder, and unlawful possession of firearms — contrary to Section 516 of the Criminal Code Law of Ondo State, 2006.
“Membership of banned cult groups such as Eiye, Ave, and Aiye confraternities — an offence under Section 1(1) of the Cultism and Similar Activities Prohibition Law of Ondo State, 2006.
“Culpable homicide, linked to the deaths of Fagbemi Guna Ayomide (25) and Sunday Adeyemi (32), stemming from violent rival cult clashes — as defined under Sections 316 and 319(1) of the Criminal Code.
“Unlawful possession of firearms, specifically by suspect Adebusoye Sunkanmi — in violation of Section 3(1) of the Robbery and Firearms (Special Provisions) Act, 2006.”
Olushola stated that intelligence gathered during investigations linked one of the deceased individuals, 52-year-old Akinsiku Olabode, to both cult activities and drug trafficking.
“He had been using proceeds from his illicit drug trade to finance cult activities, sponsor initiations, and supply arms to his group — thus fueling the violence that has rocked Ondo City in recent weeks,” the statement said.
In response to the growing threat of cultism, the state command has reinforced its security efforts by deploying the Anti-Cultism Squad and Tactical Intelligence Response Squad (TIRS).
The teams are working alongside local police units to deepen the crackdown on cult-related violence and to ensure those behind Olabode’s killing are apprehended.
The Commissioner of Police applauded residents for their vigilance and cooperation. He reassured the public that other suspects still under investigation would face legal consequences.
“The Command remains committed to restoring public confidence and safeguarding lives and property in Ondo State,” the statement read.
The police urged citizens to continue reporting suspicious movements or criminal activities at the nearest station or via emergency line: 07032358284