The Ogun State Police Command has arrested three secondary school students following an operation that disrupted a suspected cult initiation gathering in Owode-Yewa, Ogun State.
The suspects, aged 12, 18 and 18, were taken into custody on Thursday, October 22, 2026, after police received intelligence about an alleged cult-related activity involving students from different secondary schools.
The command’s spokesperson, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, confirmed the development in a statement issued in Abeokuta on Friday, October 23.
According to the police, the planned gathering was reportedly known as “Kito Day” and had raised concerns about possible cult-related activities among students in the area.
Police Recover Axe, Knives and Toy Gun
Babaseyi explained that the Divisional Police Officer in Owode-Yewa responded to the intelligence by deploying detectives to investigate the suspected gathering.
The officers worked alongside members of the Vigilante Group of Nigeria in an operation carried out on Thursday.
The joint operation resulted in the arrest of the three students and the recovery of several items suspected to be connected with the planned activity.
Police identified the recovered items as an axe, two knives, a short cutlass, a rubber toy gun and a school bag.
The command did not disclose the identities of the suspects or provide details of their respective schools.
Suspects to Face Further Investigation in Abeokuta
The police spokesperson said arrangements had been made to transfer the case to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) at Eleweran, Abeokuta.
Investigators are expected to examine the circumstances surrounding the alleged gathering, the recovered items and the possible involvement of other individuals.
Babaseyi said the transfer was scheduled for Friday to allow further investigation and determine whether prosecution would be appropriate.
The command has not announced any formal charges against the three suspects.
Concerns Over Suspected Cult Activities Among Students
The incident draws attention to concerns about suspected cult-related activities involving school-age children and young people.
Although the police described the gathering as a suspected initiation, investigators have yet to establish publicly whether an initiation ceremony actually took place.
The arrest of a 12-year-old also raises important child-protection considerations, particularly regarding how minors are questioned and handled during criminal investigations.
Under Nigerian law, suspects are entitled to due process, while children involved in criminal proceedings are subject to additional legal safeguards.
Further details are expected as the Ogun State Criminal Investigation Department continues its investigation.
