Tension gripped Roro village in Obafemi-Owode Local Government Area of Ogun State after a herder’s son, earlier declared missing, was found buried in a shallow grave.
The police said a farmer and hunter, Taiwo Amos, confessed to killing the boy after community leaders suggested residents take an oath to expose the culprit.
Amos, a widower and father of three, admitted that he attacked the victim on Tuesday, September 2, while returning from his farm. According to him, the act was not provoked.
“I saw him tending cattle alone and suddenly heard a voice telling me to kill him. He didn’t offend me, and his cows didn’t destroy my crops. I just felt compelled,” Amos confessed.
He further revealed that he buried the victim hastily, cutting his legs because he was too weak to dig a deeper grave.
He said he decided to confess out of fear of the oath imposed by the community.
The suspect pleaded for mercy, describing himself as a first-time offender.
The Baale of Abule Akin, Fatai Akande Adebayo, said hunters were mobilised to search for the killer, and after several failed attempts, he consulted Sango, the god of thunder.
Not long after, Amos reportedly confessed to fellow hunters before he was handed over to the police.
Ogun State Commissioner of Police, Lanre Ogunlowo, confirmed the arrest, adding that a dane gun and cutlass used in the crime were recovered. He assured residents that peace had returned to the community.
“The situation is calm and under control. We have engaged stakeholders—farmers, herders, and community leaders—and they all agreed there will be no reprisals,” he said.
The victim’s remains were exhumed and reburied at the request of his family. The police say investigations are ongoing.