Abeokuta, Jan. 27, 2026 (NAN) A Special Anti-Cultism Court in Isabo, Abeokuta, on Tuesday remanded 12 men over alleged cultism, murder and unlawful possession of firearms.
The defendants were arraigned on a 10-count charge bordering on conspiracy, murder, firearms possession and alleged membership of the Eiye secret cult.
Their pleas were not taken. Thirteen suspects were initially arraigned, but one defendant was granted bail.
Counsel, Solomon Babalola, urged the court to remand the suspects for 60 days pending advice from the Directorate of Public Prosecutions.
Babalola said the offences were allegedly committed on Jan. 24, 2026, about 1.20 a.m., at the Ipara-Remo area of Ogun.
He told the court the suspects conspired with others at large to commit murder and were found with firearms and other dangerous weapons.
The prosecutor alleged they unlawfully killed Femi Akindele, Kelly Eshare and Sunday Keshinro during cult rivalries between 2024 and 2025.
“They were arrested while allegedly initiating new members into the Eiye confraternity.
“They were found in possession of locally made firearms, four Beretta ammunition and 11 live cartridges,” Babalola said.
Magistrate A.S. Soneye ordered the remand of 12 defendants at the Oba Correctional Centre, pending legal advice.
Soneye granted bail to Blessing Nonso, admitting her to N500,000 bail with two sureties, noting the charge against her was bailable.
The case was adjourned until March 24 for mention. (NAN)
