Facebook murder: Religion, ritualists, and the rest of us

 

Few weeks after one Timileyin Ajayi, a 32-year-old gospel singer, was apprehended for killing his 24-year-old girlfriend, Salome Eleojo Adaidu, over accusations of cheating, there's yet another case at hand similar to that of Ajayi. But this time, it isn't about a gospel singer; it's about an Islamic teacher, AbdulRahman Bello Mohammed, who was apprehended by law enforcement agents in Ilorin for luring a Facebook friend.

The suspect, a 29-year-old man, allegedly invited the victim, Miss Yetunde Hafsoh Lawal, through a phone call on Monday, February 10, 2025, and subsequently killed her the following day and dismembered her at a location in the Olunlade area on the outskirts of Ilorin, the Kwara State capital.

This recent killing has generated a lot of reactions among Nigerians, particularly among Islamic scholars and leaders in Ilorin, the Kwara state capital. Ilorin is predominantly a Muslim state where values and tenets of Islamic teachings hold sway. But this killing of Yetunde Hafsoh Lawal by an Islamic teacher has left many bewildered. 

Most netizens on the social media space have  questioned the motive behind the murder of Yetunde Hafsoh to have been murdered and dismembered by a religious teacher -an Alfa. What has human body parts to do with an Islamic teacher? What does an Islamic teacher want to do with human blood? These and many questions are begging for answer.

 

The suspect, during interrogation by police, confessed to killing the victim with the intent to do "Oshole/Ajoo owó (money rituals)"

Looking at the similarity in the case of Timileyin Ajayi, a gospel singer and AbdulRahman Bello Mohammed, the Islamic teacher who has just been apprehended, there is a question that comes to ones mind and the question is this: What is the relationship between religion and ritual killing?

Emmanuel Kelechi(2018) "defines religion as a system of beliefs and practices that admits a binding relation to a supernatural Being or beings." Hence, religion involves the relationship between humankind and a deity or divinity. 

In the words of Regnerus and A. Burdette (2006) they noted that "religion is a belief in and worship of a God and that religion vary in their cipher and beliefs but all depict their relationship with their deities. 

If people like Mohammed under the cloak of religion masquerade themselves as teachers of a religious group, then it is obvious that people like him are nothing but ritualist who hide under religion to perpetrate evil. 

Yetunde's death adds to the growing list of the number of ladies who have been allegedly killed by their boyfriends in recent times. Earlier this month, police authorities in Akwa Ibom started a probe over the gruesome murder of a makeup artist, Emrich Effanga. 

Ritual motivated killing have been linked to the belief that rituals done with a human part will enable an individual to become wealthy. This is the primary belief of ritualist and the driving force behind their evil acts. This erroneous belief of making money particularly among youths should be discouraged.

Religious leaders have a duty to counsel their followers on the dangers of engaging in ritualist acts. The society should also deemphasize the culture of preaching materialism at all cost by encouraging hardwork and dignity of labour among the youth. 

Following the widespread condemnation of the killing of Yetunde, the Emir of Ilorin and Chairman of the Kwara State Traditional Rulers Council, Dr Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, has  directed Imams across the state to use their Friday sermons to preach against ritual killings and other inhuman acts, emphasising the need to uphold morality and dignity in society. 

The Emir also urged clerics in the Ilorin Emirate and beyond to help sanitize the system by identifying and exposing individuals like Abdulrahman Bello to law enforcement agencies before they cause more harm. This is a welcome development but beyond the pronouncement, justice must also be served accordingly to serve as a deterrent to other people like AbdulRahman who may still be planning to engage in such a dastardly act.

Parents and guardians must also warn their daughters on the dangers of building relationship with strangers especially people whom they met on the social media space to avoid being a victim of ritualist.

Oyetunde Oni writes from Osogbo, Osun state.

World Radio Day: A Reflection on the Power of Radio as a Tool for Empowering Local Communities.

In 2011, UNESCO designated February 13th of every year as World Radio Day. This day is set aside to recognize the role of radio as a medium in informing, educating, and empowering people across the world. Radio is a powerful medium of communication that breaks the barrier of literacy and geography.

How important is radio?

A major benefit of radio is its ability to reach those in rural areas with low income. In many developing nations, Nigeria included, radio is the primary source of news and entertainment for local communities, as it breaks the barrier of language by giving the indigenous people a sense of belonging.

Radio empowers the local communities. 

In many local communities in Nigeria, community radio broadcasting programs are tailored to local dialects, ensuring that crucial information is accessible to empower the local people. For instance, at the Redeemer's FM 103.5 radio programs, like "Nje eti gbo" provide our audience with stories from the daily newspapers in Nigeria in the people's local dialect. The stories are disseminated in such a way that the people are informed and at the same time entertained. Similarly, another program tagged "Ebo ope" is a program that inspires people to express gratitude to their maker for the benefits of life as well as tangible and intangible resources.

Radio as a tool for civic education and political awareness 

Radio has been highly instrumental in advancing democracy and promoting political engagement at the grassroots in Nigeria. Many community radio stations now use radio as a tool for civic education and advocacy to inform the people about their rights, electoral processes, and government policies that affect them. Similarly, the listeners have the opportunity to express their opinions in the form of feedback through phone-in programs.

Bridging the gap between the literate and the illiterate

In many communities in Nigeria, educational radio programs teach people how to read and write in their own native language, thereby empowering them with basic literacy skills. Similarly, many non-governmental organisations and the government leverage the power of radio to speak to the people in their local language when it has become necessary to pass across crucial information that can save people from imminent threat or danger.

Finally, we must not forget the contributions of brilliant minds behind the MIC in all radio stations across Nigeria and globally for their insightful content, news, analysis, and program contents geared at informing the people of various communities.

As we celebrate World Radio Day today, the power of radio in shaping lives and communities cannot be downplayed. It remains a powerful medium for empowerment and inclusivity.

LESSONS FROM THE OLD YEAR

 

The year 2024 was a remarkable year of learning and growth for me. The year came with lots of challenges, but in the end, there are valuable lessons and experiences that shaped me as a person.

One of the lessons I learnt in 2024 was to take advantage of every opportunity that comes my way. Opportunities sometimes are embedded in challenges. Instead of complaining, our responsibility should be how to uncover the opportunities in the midst of challenges.

Again, I learnt that whether in business, a career, ministry, or in any other areas of life, we need to take networking seriously. Networking provides the opportunity to connect with others and foster new bonds and friendships that can provide mutual benefits.

I also learnt that being kindhearted and supportive to other colleagues or team members is important. Being compassionate to others can be an opportunity to win more friends that may foster unity and togetherness.

Finally, embracing teamwork spirit and commitment to supporting one another at work can help to overcome difficult moments at work. 

I am going to carry with me these lessons and some others into making 2025 more fruitful and meaningful.

Wishing you a happy new year filled with opportunities for growth and development.

#newyear #2025Ready

Proudest moments of 2024 In Retrospect

 

The year 2024 has been a remarkable year of learning and growth for me. The year came with lots of challenges, but in the end, there are valuable lessons and experiences that shaped me as a person.

One of my proudest moments in 2024 was working with kindhearted and humane leaders who value the contributions of every team member. This has been the tradition since I joined this organization. Each and every leader I have had the privilege to work with are individuals who demonstrate love, encourage growth, and offer constructive feedback geared at improved performance within and outside the office space. Their compassion created an office environment that radiates peace. One of the lessons I got from these persons is that you can be a leader without necessarily becoming a boss.

Equally inspiring was the opportunity to work and collaborate with highly experienced colleagues. People who know their onions. Each of them, veterans in what they do. I could recollect vividly—on many occasions—how we were able to navigate some difficult moments trying to find solutions to some challenges that come with broadcasting, handling hardware, and multimedia content production.

Also, beyond the capacity to deliver on any project, the teamwork spirit and commitment that permeated every project was laudable. I could remember a fellow colleague, who was on maternity leave, who had willingly stepped in for me to fill up a space when I wasn't around at work. This is an example of a sacrifice that cannot be downplayed in any organization. Our shared commitment to achieving our goals as colleagues while supporting one another was at its peak. 

All of these reminded me that life’s greatest joys usually emanate from meaningful relationships, love, and shared sacrifices towards one another. As we prepare for 2025, I am definitely going to carry with me the lessons of kindness, love, and teamwork from 2024 towards making 2025 more fruitful and meaningful.

2024: The Professional and Personal Perspective

It's a few days to the beginning of a new year. Now is the time for deep introspection about the outgoing year with a view to evaluating the journey so far.

This year for me was a year marked by dedication to writing. Nearly two months into the year, a close friend of mine, now outside the shores of Nigeria, recommended me for a writing gig—an academic writing. I quickly embraced it not because the pay was juicy but because I wanted to embrace another writing challenge. But here is the problem: the gig was in another discipline that is obviously different from my background. Nursing. It was the second time that I would be handling this type of writing in that field. It was research-driven and organic to the core. The job was delivered and was a win-win situation for all of us.

This year, I had the privilege of writing dozens of articles and social media posts and did dozens of multimedia productions (audio and video) for my organization, for individuals, and for some clients. 

Each of my works gave me the privilege to explore various topics such as faith, spiritual growth, and personal development, among other areas. Similarly, being a broadcast journalist created opportunities for me to analyze issues on air, set agendas for the public, and engage in robust conversation with opinion leaders, community leaders, and listeners who listen to our station within and around our neighbouring communities.

Furthermore, 2024 marked significant growth in my professional network. I had the privilege to attend conferences (local and national) where I met with new colleagues in the broadcast industry. I also connected with industry experts, shared ideas, and learned from other professionals with a view to expanding my understanding of the evolving broadcasting landscape and technological innovations, particularly on the emergence of AI in the broadcast industry. 

In addition, 2024 was a year of making meaningful impacts in the lives of other people. I had the opportunity to coach and teach scores of students (those in higher institutions and a few secondary school students) in the art of multimedia production and content creation. Some of the trainees became experts who later worked with us on a few other projects.

Looking back, 2024 has been a year of learning, growth, and connection. I hope 2025 will come with greater opportunities for personal and professional growth. 

Until then, enjoy the last weekend of the year.

 

THE POWER OF EXTRA EFFORT

In today's competitive work environment, it is crucial to exert extra effort. Organizations and employers of labour are in constant search for workers that are committed to completing tasks, demonstrating commitment, and showcasing excellence in the discharge of their duties.

Putting in extra effort at work is not only important for professional growth; it is also crucial for personal growth. A lot of times, people only focus on completing tasks assigned to them, ignoring the need to go the extra mile to get the task done beyond what is expected.

When you put in extra effort and exceed  expectations, there's a possibility that you are unlocking your door to recognition, possible promotion, and career advancement. Your extra effort at work or in completing tasks portrays you as a person with a strong work ethic who will be valued as a team player.

Those who consistently put in extra effort tend to build a positive reputation among colleagues and superiors. This reputation can lead to significant opportunities, such as leading important projects or being considered for higher-level positions.

Be committed to adding your extra effort to every task, for in due season you will reap the rewards.

Have a great week!

My name is Oyetunde Oni. I am an author, a broadcast journalist, and a multimedia content creator.

Social media, Nathaniel Bassey and the need for self-restraint

The importance of social media cannot be overemphasized, given the numerous advantages that it has brought to humanity. With the advent of social media, people can easily connect with one another, sharing ideas, thoughts, and opinions across frontiers. Social media has also become a tool for business owners, organizations, and service providers to promote their businesses and engage with prospective clients across geographical borders.

However, with the rise in the use of social media, it is increasingly becoming a tool of oppression; stalking, identity theft, personal attacks, and misuse of information are some of the dangers faced by social media users. The quest for likes, shares, comments, and increased traffic are some of the underlying factors why people are sometimes reckless in what they say on social media without considering the consequences of their actions on others and themselves.

Recently, gospel artiste Nathaniel Bassey, petitioned Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun to investigate and prosecute four individuals who falsely accused him of being the father of Mercy Chinwo’s child. 

The petition, according to Bassey’s legal representatives, was submitted on April 1, 2024, alleging criminal defamation and cyber stalking against some individuals identified as Okoronkwo Ejike, Kingsley Ibeh, Terrence Ekot, and Dj Spoiltkid.

The four social media users alleged that Nathaniel Bassey fathered the child of fellow popular gospel singer Mercy Chinwo, leading to the spread of the false accusation on X (formerly Twitter). This is one of the many examples of false accusations and deliberate damage to reputation that go on daily in the social media space. This type of unfounded allegations and malicious statements can tarnish the reputation that these individuals have built over the years and consequently render their marriages and businesses unstable. Why should a sane person utter statements capable of causing others to suffer?

Section 24(1)(b) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act 2015 states that:

Any     person     who     knowingly     or     intentionally     sends     a     message     or     other     matter     by    means    of    computer    systems    or    network    that:   

(b) he     knows     to     be     false,     for     the     purpose     of     causing     annoyance,     inconvenience    danger,     obstruction,     insult,     injury,     criminal     intimidation,     enmity,     hatred, ill     will          or    needless    anxiety    to    another    or    causes    such    a    message    to    be    sent: commits    an    offence    under    this    Act    and    shall    be liable    on    conviction    to    a    fine    of    not    more    than    N7,000,000.00    or    imprisonment    for    a    term    of    not    more    than    3    years    or    to    both    such    fine    and    imprisonment.

While we advocate for freedom of expression as enshrined in Section 39, Subsections 1 and 2, of the 1999 Constitution, ‘Every person is entitled to freedom of expression, including the freedom to hold opinions and to receive and impart ideas and information without interference…’ This freedom should be exercised within the ambit of the law. Undoubtedly, regardless of ethnicity, gender, nationality, religion, language, social, or marital status, people have the right to express themselves ‘intelligently’ but when such rights infringe on other people's rights, they must take responsibility and be ready to face the consequences of their actions.

This issue of Nathaniel Bassey will be a wakeup call for ‘online in-laws’ and ‘keypad mercenaries’ to take caution and be responsible in what they like, share, and endorse on the social media space. 

Oyetunde Oni is my name. I am a writer, a broadcast journalist, and a lover of good works. I am excited to be back here after a few weeks of break. Have a wonderful weekend!