The Nigerian Police Force (NPF) has revealed alarming details regarding the link between the growing hookup culture and the increasing number of missing person cases in the country. This was made known by the Public Relations Officer of the Ogun State Command, Omolola Odutola, during an appearance on Channels Television’s Morning Brief program on Wednesday.
Speaking during the session, Odutola expressed concern about the rise in hookup activities, stating that they are significantly connected to the numerous cases of missing young women. She further pointed out that many of these cases are related to ritual practices, fueled by a disturbing mindset among some individuals who believe in ritual killings as a means to acquire wealth.
According to her, women aged between 20 and 32 years are the most affected by this trend. She emphasized the gravity of the situation and issued a warning to young people about the inherent dangers of engaging in hookup culture. Odutola explained, “This particular menace is very serious, and I would like a lot of young people to understand the danger in the hookup culture. Today, we have lots of reports of missing persons. By the time we start an investigation, not less than 10 young girls and ladies go missing daily.”
She further elaborated on the findings of the investigations, saying that many of these cases are not random but are instead linked to the victims’ use of hookup channels and apps. She stated, “In-depth investigations also reveal that those cases are not by accidents. Most of them are connected to hookup channels and apps. They fall victim to strangers who casually invite them to unknown places, and eventually, they become victims of ritual purposes.”
Odutola also highlighted the recurring nature of these incidents, especially in Ogun State, and lauded the efforts of the Ogun State Commissioner of Police in addressing the issue. She remarked, “Most cases of missing girls and ritual killings occurring in Ogun State of recent, I would like to say that it is not new. But as much as possible, the Ogun State Commissioner of Police has been able to tame these ugly incidents.”
The revelation has sparked widespread conversations about the dangers associated with hookup culture and the need for increased awareness and preventive measures to curb the menace of ritual killings in the society.
