Notorious Cult Leader ‘Olori Eso’ Arraigned in Court for Serial Killings and Gun Possession

The Lagos State Police Command has arraigned Wasiu Akinwande, popularly known as “Olori Eso,” a feared cult kingpin allegedly behind a decade-long reign of terror in Mushin and surrounding areas. The 44-year-old was brought before an Ikeja Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, facing an 11-count charge of murder, cultism, and unlawful possession of firearms.

Magistrate M.O. Tanimola ordered that the suspect be remanded at Kirikiri Correctional Facility pending further investigations. The court did not take his plea and has adjourned the trial to September 4, directing the police to forward the case file to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) for legal advice.

Captured After Years of Eluding Arrest

According to the prosecution, DSP Nosa Uhumwangho, Akinwande was arrested on June 20 at his Agbado hideout in Ogun State after several failed attempts by the police over the years.

The operation to capture him was part of a coordinated sting dubbed “Silence, Speed and Surprise.” DSP Uhumwangho noted that the notorious suspect and his gang had orchestrated numerous violent operations across Mushin and neighboring communities from 2009 to 2024, leaving a trail of bloodshed and fear.

“His criminal reign spread fear among residents and posed a significant threat to peace and order in Lagos communities,” the prosecutor stated.

Deadly Arsenal Recovered During Raid

Following Akinwande’s arrest, the police raided his Mushin residence, where a shocking cache of weapons and suspicious items were uncovered.

Items Recovered Include:

• Nine AK-47 rifles

• Two pump-action shotguns

• Two locally-made pistols

• Five magazines

• 57 live cartridges

• 70 rounds of 5.56mm ammunition

• 27 rounds of 9mm ammunition

• One expended 5.56mm shell

• A dagger

• Three walkie-talkies

• 13 international passports with valid visas belonging to different individuals

These items, according to the police, are believed to have been used in several coordinated attacks and criminal operations carried out by Akinwande and his associates.

Multiple Families Point Fingers at ‘Olori Eso’

The prosecution revealed that four grieving families have already come forward to identify Akinwande as the alleged perpetrator responsible for the murders of their children and relatives.

These developments further deepen the case against the accused, who is now facing a potential death sentence under Section 223 of the Lagos State Criminal Law (2015) if convicted.

A Violent Legacy in Mushin and Beyond

‘Olori Eso’ has long been associated with gang violence, cult wars, and targeted killings that have kept entire neighborhoods in fear for years. His criminal activities reportedly extended beyond Mushin into Agege, Surulere, Bariga, and Oshodi, with each attack marked by brutal precision and calculated evasion of law enforcement.

His arrest is seen by many as a major breakthrough in the fight against gang-related violence in Lagos.

Awaiting Justice

As the case heads toward full trial on September 4, the public—and especially the families of victims—await justice. The court’s directive for the DPP to review the case is a critical step in determining the next legal course, including whether the trial will be moved to a higher court for prosecution.

Conclusion: Will the Reign of ‘Olori Eso’ Finally End in Conviction?

Wasiu Akinwande’s arrest and arraignment represent a moment of hope for many Lagos residents who have lived under the shadow of his gang’s brutality. But with the seriousness of the charges, the extensive cache of recovered weapons, and the emotional testimonies of families who lost loved ones, all eyes are now on the Lagos judiciary.

Will justice prevail, or will loopholes in the system allow another kingpin to walk free? September 4 will be a date to watch.