Ritual killing: Court approves burial of dismembered body of Hafsor Lawal

A Kwara State High Court sitting in Ilorin has granted permission for the burial of the dismembered remains of 24-year-old Hafsor Lawal, the victim in an ongoing murder trial involving suspected ritual killing.

Justice Hannah Ajayi gave the order on Monday following an oral application by the Kwara State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Senior Ibrahim, during the resumed accelerated hearing of the case. The remains had earlier been admitted in court as evidence.

Five individuals, including the first defendant, Abdulrahman Bello, are currently standing trial for alleged conspiracy and murder in connection with Lawal’s death.

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During Monday’s proceedings, three additional witnesses testified — among them two police officers and a consultant anatomic pathologist from the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, Dr. Olaleke Folaranmi.

The court was presented with videos showing the recovery of the victim’s body parts, evoking strong emotions among observers in the courtroom.

Sergeant Moses, one of the witnesses, narrated how the deceased’s mobile phone was traced to Bello and how the suspect allegedly attempted to bribe him during the investigation.

According to police testimony, parts of Lawal’s body were allegedly found in Bello’s residence, while others were recovered from a public dumpsite.

Following the prosecution’s request, Justice Ajayi granted permission for the remains to be released for burial in accordance with Islamic rites.

So far, seven witnesses have testified in the case. The trial is scheduled to continue on May 21, 2025.