Forced to follow in his grandfather's footsteps, a teenage boy is kidnapped over a traditional chief priest role he refuses to accept.
A teenage member of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Tomiwa Okundalaye, was kidnapped on March 27, 2024, by suspected ritualists in Surulere, Lagos. The incident is linked to a controversial ritual inheritance in his hometown of Owo, Ondo State.
According to the Ondo State Police Command's spokesperson, Funmi Odunlami, the boy was abducted because he was chosen by the gods to succeed his late grandfather, Olajide Okundalaye, as the chief priest of the Okundalaye family. However, Tomiwa and his father, Tosin Okundalaye, objected to this traditional practice, citing their Christian beliefs.
The suspects allegedly wanted to force Tomiwa to accept the position and perform the necessary rituals, which he and his father had refused. The boy was rescued, and two suspects were arrested in connection with the abduction. Items recovered from the suspects include a cutlass, dane gun, and local charms. The suspects will be charged to court.
Following Tosin's plea that the arrest might not bring the matter to a conclusion, the police have assured that the matter will be further investigated, and culprits will be brought to justice.
This incident highlights the challenges faced by individuals who resist forced cultural or religious practices, especially in cases where family traditions conflict with personal beliefs.
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