Pastor Kehinde Osho, Family On The Run Over Forced Leadership Of Deadly Ritual Cult In Ogun

An Ogun State pastor, Kehinde Osho and his family have fled their home after being targeted by a deadly ritual cult, Abore Ogbanran, for refusing to assume leadership following the death of his father. The pastor, Osho Jimmy Kehinde, was expected to take over the secret society’s operations, which reportedly involve monthly sacrifices of virgin girls on Ose Day, a sacred day for the group. His refusal, citing his Christian faith, has led to threats, physical assault on his wife, and the murder of a relative who had previously declined the role.

The group, based in Iperu Remo, Ogun State, is known for its strict traditional rituals and enforcement of leadership through bloodline inheritance. According to sources close to the family, Osho Jimmy Kehinde’s uncle, who had earlier refused to lead the cult, was brutally killed alongside his family in what appears to be a warning to others. The pastor’s wife, Osho Idowu Ashabi, was also reportedly attacked in an attempt to pressure her husband into accepting the role.

Fearing for their lives, the Osho family fled to Lagos, but concerns remain over the extensive influence of such cult groups. Ritualistic societies remain a significant issue in parts of Nigeria, with reports of forced initiations, human sacrifices, and attacks on individuals who reject their practices. Security experts warn that the absence of strong government action has allowed these secret cults to thrive, instilling fear in communities.

Religious persecution continues to be a major concern in Nigeria, with individuals facing threats for converting to or practicing faiths different from their traditional beliefs. According to human rights organizations. Many religious leaders have called on the Nigerian government to strengthen policies protecting individuals from forced participation in traditional cult activities.

Legal analysts emphasize that while Nigeria’s Constitution guarantees freedom of religion, enforcement remains a challenge in rural and semi-urban areas where cult traditions hold strong influence. Victims of such persecution often find little protection, as fear and intimidation prevent them from speaking out or seeking justice. In many cases, families are forced to flee their ancestral homes, leaving behind their livelihoods and support systems.

For now, Osho Jimmy Kehinde and his family remain in hiding, uncertain about their next steps. While them likely to be in fear of going exile to save their life remains an option, the larger issue of ritual cult violence in Nigeria persists, raising urgent questions about government intervention and the protection of religious freedoms in the country.