Yusuf Adenoyin, a 31-year-old suspect, confessed to selling human skulls to fund his mother’s medical treatment. Adenoyin was apprehended by police in Isua-Akoko with eight human skulls in his possession.
Adenoyin, originally from Kogi State, explained his desperate situation to journalists at the Police Command headquarters in Alagbaka, Akure. He stated that he initially worked in the palm oil business, but financial struggles forced him into the gruesome trade. According to Adenoyin, his mother’s doctor had demanded N2 million for her hospital treatment, prompting his drastic measures.
Introduced to the macabre business through social media, Adenoyin connected with a herbalist who needed human skulls. He revealed that a man, now at large, facilitated his entry into the skull trade, sourcing skulls from graveyards.
Adenoyin admitted to purchasing skulls at N20,000 each and reselling them in Osun State for N30,000 to N35,000.
The suspect, based in Osogbo, Osun State capital, was arrested on Monday at the Isua/Epinmi checkpoint by officers from the Police Safer Highway patrol. Commissioner of Police Abayomi Oladipo detailed that Adenoyin attempted to flee when the commercial vehicle he was traveling in was stopped. He was quickly apprehended, and a search of his baggage revealed eight dry human skulls concealed in a sack filled with garri.
Adenoyin also claimed that some of the skulls had fresh flesh, which he said was the heart of a dog. His arrest underscores the severe lengths individuals may go to in times of financial desperation, highlighting the broader issues of economic hardship and the urgent need for accessible healthcare.
The investigation continues as authorities seek to apprehend others involved in the illicit trade.
