Tragedy struck the Adeboye Camp community in Emure Ekiti on Sunday evening, as a ritual test gone wrong led to the gruesome death of a 35-year-old man.
According to findings by the Ekiti Amotekun security corps, the victim, Sunday Joseph, was an herbalist from Ihima Local Government in Kogi State. He resided alongside the alleged perpetrator, 38-year-old Joseph Kantala, who hails from Plateau State’s Planta Local Government.
The two men had reportedly been testing a native “okigbe” charm, designed to provide resistance against machete attacks. In a fatal turn of events, Kantala allegedly used the machete to chop off Joseph’s hand during the ritual test. Despite the charm, Joseph’s severed hand did not miraculously reattach, and he bled to death on the scene due to the lack of immediate medical attention.
“It’s a truly tragic and senseless loss of life,” said Emure Ekiti resident Adeola Adebayo. “These traditional rituals can be extremely dangerous when not handled properly. Our community is in mourning.”
The Ekiti Amotekun corps has launched a full investigation into the incident. Kantala is currently in custody as authorities work to determine the exact sequence of events and ascertain whether charges will be filed.
Local officials have urged residents to exercise extreme caution when engaging in any traditional practices, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing safety and seeking professional medical care when necessary.