A Nigerian man, Olamilekan Emmanuel Oyenuga, has alleged that members of his extended family attacked him at his residence in Lagos State following a prolonged dispute tied to traditional Egungun ritual practices associated with his family lineage.
Oyenuga, who was born on October 4, 1991, reportedly lived at No. 2 Lawrence Lane, Bayo Kuku Road, Lagos, after relocating from his hometown in Ilishan – Remo Ogun State in a bid to remain anonymous.
He said the move became necessary due to repeated threats linked to what he described as a compulsory family ritual.
According to information made available to this correspondent, the incident occurred on December 8, 2024, when two individuals identified as Chief Alaapinni Oyenuga Liasu and Oyenuga Abiodun said to be senior members of his family allegedly arrived at his residence.
Oyenuga claimed he was physically assaulted during the encounter and that an attempt was made to forcibly take him away to compel his participation in the ritual.
He reportedly managed to escape and later received medical treatment for injuries sustained during the incident. The matter was subsequently reported to the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID), Alagbon Annex, Lagos.
Oyenuga further stated that the Lagos incident was not the first attack he had experienced.
He alleged that he had previously been assaulted on two separate occasions in Ogun and Oyo states after refusing similar ritual demands from family members.
Explaining the root of the dispute, Oyenuga said his refusal to participate in the traditional Egungun rites followed the death of his father.
He maintained that his decision is based on his Christian faith.
The father of children expressed deep concern for the safety of his wife and children, noting that they are currently living in fear and anxiety due to the repeated threats and attacks.
He has called on relevant Nigerian authorities and security agencies to intervene, stressing that the situation has escalated beyond a private family matter and now poses a serious threat to his life and the wellbeing of his family.