An unusual scene recently played out in Ijebu Ode that left many residents talking — a man tried to steal the Agemo statue. Yes, the Agemo statue.
Breaking It Down
The Strange Attempt: The man, later identified as Jeremiah Nwoko, reportedly tried to carry off the statue. But in a strange twist, he fell mid-act and passed out — unconscious, but not dead.
Mental Health in Focus: Authorities later confirmed that Nwoko struggles with mental health issues. That sheds light on what could have led to his actions.
Not the First Incident: Just a few days earlier, he was involved in another disturbing event — breaking a cell key at the Obalende Police Station. Clearly, this wasn’t a one-off moment.
The Bigger Questions
Why the Agemo Statue? Was it random? Or did he feel some kind of pull toward it? His motives are still unclear.
Are We Doing Enough About Security? This situation has sparked fresh conversations around community safety and whether our local security systems — including uniformed personnel — are being properly supported.
A Wake-Up Call
This incident is a reminder that cultural heritage must be protected, not just from intentional harm but also from situations that arise from mental health crises. It also points to the need for compassion — both in caring for our traditions and those in distress.
Source: Oracle of Peace
