A 33-year-old man, Ishola Balogun, appeared before an Ikeja Magistrates’ Court on Thursday over alleged conspiracy, cultism, and unlawful possession of a firearm.

Balogun, alongside others at large, faces three-count charge bordering on alleged conspiracy, membership of an unlawful society, and illegal possession of firearms.

 The Prosecutor, Superintendent of Police, Josephine Ikhayere, told the court the offences occurred on February 14, about 2.00 p.m., in Afro Media area of Okokomaiko, Lagos.

Ms Ikhayere said, “The defendant conspired with others to commit a felony, namely cultism and unlawful possession of firearms,” citing Section 411 of Lagos State Criminal Law, 2015.

According to her, Balogun belongs to the Eye Confraternity, “an unlawful society,” contrary to provisions of the Unlawful Societies Prohibition and Cultism Law of Lagos State, 2021.

“The defendant was found with a locally made single-barrel pistol without lawful authority,” Ikhayere said, referencing Sections 4 and 6 of the Firearms Act.

She noted that the cultism law prescribes “a minimum of 20 years’ imprisonment up to life” for offenders.

Ms Ikhayere further stated that firearm offences under the Act attract “not less than 10 years’ imprisonment without an option of fine.”

The defendant pleaded not guilty to all the charges.

The Magistrate, Lateef Owolabi, ordered his remand in custody pending further hearing.

The case was adjourned until May 20, 2026, for mention. 

(NAN)