Police Link Most Missing Girls and Ritual Killings in Nigeria to Hookups

Nigerian police reveal that a significant number of missing girls’ cases and ritual killings are connected to hookup activities, urging caution and community vigilance.

The Nigerian Police Force has linked many cases of missing young women and girls, reportedly used for ritual purposes in Nigeria, to the widespread hookup culture prevalent across the country.

Omolola Odutola, the Public Relations Officer of Ogun State Command and a special guest on Channels Television’s Morning Brief on Wednesday, discussed the topic ‘Hookup Culture: Impact on Youth Values and Relationships.’ She noted that young girls and women between the ages of 20 and 32 are particularly vulnerable to this issue.

The hookup culture promotes and accepts casual sexual encounters, like one-night stands, without requiring emotional connection or long-term commitment.

The concept of casual, non-romantic sexual encounters has existed since the 1920s.

Some social critics claim that casual encounters represent a feminist victory, while others express concern that it might be detrimental to the development of healthy, intimate relationships.

The hookup culture can also be influenced by gender norms, with women often facing different standards compared to men. For instance, women who engage in numerous hookups or become intimate quickly may frequently encounter judgment and derogatory labels such as “hoe.”

This issue is quite serious, and I wish more young people would understand the risks associated with hookup culture.

Today, we have numerous reports of missing persons. By the time we initiate an investigation, no fewer than 10 young girls and women are reported missing each day.

She stated, “Detailed investigations also uncover that these cases are not accidental. The majority are linked to hookup channels and apps, where individuals become victims after being casually invited by strangers to unfamiliar locations, ultimately becoming targets for ritual purposes.”

She noted that many young people, particularly males, believe ritual killings can bring them wealth.

Recently, there have been numerous cases of missing girls and ritual killings in Ogun state. Although these issues are not new, the Ogun State Commissioner of Police has made significant efforts to address and control these troubling incidents as much as possible.

The Nigerian Police Force has found that many cases of missing young women and girls, often linked to ritual practices in Nigeria, are associated with the widespread hookup culture currently prevalent across the country.

Omolola Odutola, the Public Relations Officer for Ogun State Command and a special guest on Channels Television’s Morning Brief on Wednesday, addressed the topic ‘Hookup Culture: Impact on Youth Values and Relationships.’ During her discussion, she noted that young girls and women aged 20 to 32 are often affected by this issue.

Hookup culture promotes and accepts casual sexual encounters, including one-night stands, without the need for emotional attachment or long-term commitment.

The concept of casual, non-romantic sexual relationships has existed since the 1920s.

Some social critics claim that hooking up represents a feminist achievement, whereas others express concern that it might hinder healthy, intimate relationships.

The hookup culture can sometimes be influenced by gender, with women often facing different judgments compared to men. For instance, women who have multiple partners or are perceived as going too far during a first encounter may frequently be labeled with derogatory terms such as “hoe.”

This specific threat is quite serious, and I hope many young people recognize the dangers associated with hookup culture.

Today, we receive numerous reports of missing persons. By the time an investigation begins, at least 10 young girls and women go missing each day.

“In-depth investigations indicate that these cases are not accidental. The majority are linked to hookup channels and apps, where individuals fall prey to strangers who casually invite them to unfamiliar locations, ultimately leading them into situations of ritual exploitation,” she explained.

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She mentioned that many young people, particularly males, believe that participating in ritual killings can lead to wealth.

Recently, there have been numerous cases of missing girls and ritual killings in Ogun State. I want to emphasize that this is not a new issue. However, the Ogun State Commissioner of Police has made significant efforts to curb these troubling incidents as much as possible.

It originates from the disturbing belief held by certain young individuals that ritual killings can bring wealth. There are unscrupulous people who manipulate these youths into acquiring human skulls or body parts for use in concoctions they claim will lead to riches.

“That’s why we’re conducting advocacy and awareness campaigns to inform young people that participating in ritual killings will not lead to wealth,” she stated.

She stated that the police command is collaborating closely with the state’s Women Affairs Commission to address and curb this issue effectively.

The Ogun State government, through its Women Affairs Commission, collaborates with the police command to offer counseling sessions.

Aside from that, in situations like this where the girls manage to escape the rituals, we have effective methods in place to help them overcome any mental health issues and anxiety they may have experienced during the incident.

She stated that hookup culture is common among young women aged 20 to around 32. She believes they become involved in this due to feeling unsupported by their parents and a desire for quick financial gain.

Dorothy Njemanze, a development expert participating in the discussion from Abuja, called on the Nigerian Police to ensure comprehensive security measures and foster a culture of reporting crimes.

Many of the predatory behaviors we observe have always been present in society. Instead of addressing these issues directly, we often make excuses and attempt to guilt-trip others. Whether you stay at home or go out, there is potential for harm. In Nigeria, many successful marriages begin through hookups; as adults, we’re expected to meet people regardless of how those interactions originate.

I am worried that the predation system is affecting children, with many being enticed into it. It’s essential for every state to implement a mandatory reporting mechanism for any suspicious activities so they can be promptly reported. Law enforcement must act swiftly when issues are reported and not depend on bureaucracy or wait for formal petitions before taking action; otherwise, there’s a serious problem.

We rely on the proactive approach of law enforcement agencies.

Malicious individuals often devise meticulous plans to gain the trust of their intended victims, reducing the likelihood that their targets will raise alarms and ensuring they evade capture.

I overheard the policewoman discussing people attending parties, and I also read about a woman who was killed by her pastor in the church. It shows that anyone could be involved.

Regardless of the dimension in which bad individuals choose to operate, law enforcement should be prepared to intervene swiftly and ensure that any damage is minimal or nonexistent. Additionally, fostering a culture where mandatory reporting by society members can significantly help minimize such incidents.

“As we may not be able to regulate adult interactions, we can work on reducing these instances since hookup culture impacts both genders, though women tend to be more affected. Men often face pressure to acquire resources that enhance their status. Nonetheless, always ensure someone is aware of your whereabouts whenever you go out,” she advised.