The Ogun State Police Command has revealed that Jeremiah Nwoke, the man arrested for attempting to steal the crown of the Agemo deity statue in Ijebu Ode, is suspected to be suffering from mental illness.
According to the police, Nwoke was apprehended on Saturday, April 12, 2025, after allegedly causing damage to the statue of the Agemo deity located at Itoro Roundabout, along Folagbade Road in Ijebu Ode. The statue, a golden figure that was installed more than two decades ago, was reportedly found desecrated early that morning by residents of the area.
A video circulating on social media showed a man in a blue top lying motionless on the ground near the fallen statue, with some reports initially suggesting that the suspect was dead. However, the police quickly responded to clarify the situation.
Omolola Odutola, the spokesperson for the Ogun State Police Command, addressed the rumors in a statement to PUNCH Metro on Sunday, April 13, 2025. She assured the public that, contrary to the false reports, Nwoke was not dead. “A male adult, Jeremiah Nwoke, desecrated the revered Agemo Shrine by severing its crown, which has since been recovered and is in safe custody at Obalende Police Station,” Odutola confirmed.
Odutola went on to explain that the quick intervention of the police helped to prevent a potentially violent situation. “Prompt response by the police at the scene calmed tension and prevented potential violent escalation by traditional worshippers,” she said, noting that the act had upset many in the community who hold the statue in high regard.
The police spokesperson also noted that Nwoke is currently undergoing a psychological evaluation, with initial observations indicating that he may be suffering from mental instability. “Initial observations suggest signs of mental instability,” she said, adding that this evaluation would help determine the next steps in handling the suspect.
