Nigeria: Man who attempted to steal deity statue suspected to be mentally ill
By Zuleihat Owuiye, Mamos Nigeria
The Ogun State Police Command has disclosed that Jeremiah Nwoke, the individual accused of attempting to steal the crown of the Agemo deity statue in Ijebu Ode, is suspected to be suffering from mental illness. Nwoke was apprehended on Saturday, April 14 2025, after allegedly damaging the revered statue.
The golden Agemo statue, commissioned over two decades ago, was found desecrated by residents early that morning. A viral video had shown a man lying motionless near the fallen statue, sparking rumors of the suspect’s death. However, the police spokesperson, Omolola Odutola, clarified that Nwoke was alive and in custody.
Odutola stated that prompt police intervention prevented potential unrest among traditional worshippers outraged by the sacrilegious act. “Prompt response by the police at the scene calmed tension and prevented potential violent escalation by traditional worshippers,” she said.
The suspect is currently undergoing psychological evaluation, with initial observations suggesting signs of mental instability. The police have recovered the severed crown, which is in safe custody at Obalende Police Station. Odutola assured residents that Ijebu Ode remains calm and that the investigation is ongoing.
Despite the incident, the police spokesperson assured the public of their safety, saying, “Members of the public are assured of their safety as the investigation into the incident continues.” The police are working to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident and ensure justice is served.
