By Springs News NG
February 16, 2025

Ilorin South, Kwara State – The brutal murder of Lawal Yetunde, a young teacher from Kwara State, has sparked outrage across Nigeria. The 25-year-old was allegedly lured to her death by Abdulrahman Ballo, a self-proclaimed cleric suspected of ritual killings.

The tragic incident, which occurred in the Olunlade area of Ilorin South Local Government, has reignited concerns over the rising cases of ritualistic murders in the country.

How Did Yetunde Go Missing?

Yetunde, who had recently started teaching at a local primary and nursery school, was last seen on February 10 after returning home from work. Later that evening, she attended a naming ceremony in her neighborhood but left abruptly after receiving a phone call. She never returned.

Her sudden disappearance alarmed her family, who launched a search and, after 24 hours, reported her missing at the Oja-Oba Police Station in Ilorin. Her father, Ibrahim Lawal, revealed that police investigations led to a shocking discovery.

“We didn’t see her that night, and she didn’t return home. After searching for a day, we went to the police. They traced her phone records, which led them to Abdulrahman Ballo,” Lawal said.

Ballo’s Confession and the Grisly Discovery

At first, Ballo denied any knowledge of Yetunde’s whereabouts. However, during a police search of his apartment, investigators made a horrifying discovery – Yetunde’s dismembered remains.

Under intense interrogation, Ballo later admitted to killing the young woman. He initially claimed she died from an asthma attack, but forensic evidence contradicted his story, strongly suggesting a ritual killing.

Lawal further disclosed disturbing findings from the crime scene.

“We found ritual items in his house—horns, black soap, and charms. This was not just murder; my daughter was killed for rituals,” he lamented.

Police Investigation and Public Outrage

The Kwara State Police Command confirmed Ballo’s arrest and stated that investigations were ongoing. Police spokesperson Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi explained how officers quickly acted on Yetunde’s phone records to apprehend the suspect.

“The police acted swiftly. They traced her phone, arrested the suspect, and recovered crucial evidence. The case has now been transferred to the state Criminal Investigation Department (CID) for further investigation,” Ejire-Adeyemi stated.

The case has sparked national outrage, with Nigerians flooding social media to express horror over the crime. Many are calling for swift justice and stronger measures to combat ritual killings, which have become increasingly prevalent.

Residents of Kwara State and Nigerians at large now await the outcome of the investigation, hoping the authorities will bring the perpetrators to justice and send a stro