Ritualists storm hospital in Ekiti, demand new born babies

Suspected ritualists invaded a public health centre in Ado-Ekiti, the Ekiti State capital, in the wee hours of Saturday, demanding a day old baby.


It was learnt that five suspected ritualists went to a health centre in Irona Quarters around 12:30am.

An official of Ado-Ekiti Local Government Council said: “The hospital workers tried to convince them that babies delivered in the last one week had been discharged, but their explanations fell on deaf ears. They were dealt with mercilessly. This angered them and they beat up the medical personnel. They ransacked the wards and left when they did not find any baby.”

She said one of the victims sustained a leg injury and was receiving treatment at an undisclosed hospital in Ado-Ekiti.

During his visit to the centre, the Council Chairman, Mr. Tope Olanipekun, described the attack as “the height of callousness”.

Olanipekun said: “The incident actually happened and we are taking steps to forestall a recurrence. The doctor-in-charge has reported the case at the Okesa Police Station and we are planning to fence all health centres and strengthen security.

“I have instructed that night duty be suspended until adequate security measures are put in place. We have also advised that expectant mothers in labour should be referred to Okeyinmi Health Centre.”

Police spokesman Victor Olu-Babayemi said the incident had not been officially reported to the police