The Kwara State Government has sealed Omosebi Mortuary, located at No. 6, 1 Gaa – Akanbi, Pipeline junction, Ilorin South Local Government Area.
According to a report, the mortuary, allegedly used by murderers, ritual killers, and others to dispose of victims’ bodies, was deemed a serious threat to public health.
The action follows an earlier report by Afrika Eyes regarding the negligent handling of 27-year-old student Yusuf Mubarak’s body, left unattended at the mortuary after his demise at Nasarawa State University, Lafia, on September 16, 2023.
State health commissioner, Dr. Amina Ahmed El-Imam, along with other health officials, took part in the closure on Thursday, February 15, 2024, emphasizing the necessity of curbing such illegal operations to protect the community.
El-Imam, condemning the mortuary’s utter disregard for human dignity and public health, revealed, “We received reports of illegal activities concerning the handling of remains of residents of Kwara State, and we promptly took action.” She emphasized that the mortuary operated without government approval.
The commissioner clarified, “We were here last year, October 9, 2023, and when we came and sealed the premises, we saw for ourselves that they have an utter disregard for human dignity, the risk to life, and public health that this place poses to our people in Kwara State.”
El-Imam stated unequivocally that the government would not tolerate quackery or undignified handling of people’s remains, stressing the importance of upholding the rule of law.
“We received information indicating that they have resumed operations illegally. We are here today to implement extensive, multifaceted approaches to ensure that this kind of illegality does not persist, not only in this facility but throughout the state,” she added.
The commissioner revealed ongoing collaboration with the Nigerian police and the Ministry of Justice, promising swift legal action against the perpetrators. She emphasized the state government’s zero tolerance for such impunity.
Meanwhile, sources linked the mortuary to high-profile cases, including the alleged ritual killing of Mustapha Balogun. The possibility of organ harvesting was raised, prompting calls for a thorough investigation and the arrest of those involved.
Despite a previous closure in October, the owner reportedly reopened the mortuary, continuing illegal operations. The government’s resolute stance aims to put an end to these activities and ensure justice prevails.
