Nigerian Police Expose the Dark Link Between Hookup Culture and Ritualistic Practices
The Nigerian Police Force has sounded the alarm about the alarming number of cases involving missing young women and girls linked to ritualistic practices in Nigeria. These incidents are deeply rooted in the growing hookup culture that has become increasingly prevalent in the country.
The hookup culture, also known as “hooking up,” typically involves women meeting with men at social gatherings and engaging in sexual activities with them, often without the intention of forming a long-term relationship.
While some experts view the hookup culture as a milestone for feminist progress, others argue that it undermines the foundation of healthy, intimate relationships. Additionally, the culture often exhibits gender bias, with women facing different societal judgments compared to men. Women who engage in multiple hookups or are perceived to have gone too far during their initial encounters may be labeled with derogatory terms.
During a recent conversation on Channels Television’s Morning Brief, Public Relations Officer for the Ogun State Command, Omolola Odutola, emphasized the need to address the issue. She revealed that young women between the ages of 20 and 32 are particularly vulnerable to this trend and often fall victim to strangers who casually invite them to unknown places, where they are subjected to ritual purposes.
Odutola warned that most young persons, especially males, believe that ritual killings can make them rich, leading to unscrupulous elements deceiving young people to get human skulls or body parts. She noted that the police command is working closely with the Women Affairs Commission to stem the menace.
A Positive Note: Some Healthy Marriages in Nigeria Have Origins in Hookups
In contrast, a development expert, Dorothy Njemanze, shared that many healthy marriages in Nigeria have their roots in hookups. However, she expressed concern that the predatory system extends to children, urging the Nigerian Police to provide full security and encourage the reporting culture to deal with the crime.
Njemanze emphasized the need for a mandatory reporting system to minimize these incidents, highlighting that the proactiveness of law enforcement agencies is crucial in preventing these crimes. She also warned that bad people plan well to gain the trust of their victims, making it essential for law enforcement to be ready to swoop in and prevent damage.
Ultimately, Njemanze encouraged individuals to take control of their own safety by making sure someone knows their whereabouts when attending social events, acknowledging that the hookup culture affects both men and women, but more significantly, women.
