The Ogun State Police Command has arrested eight individuals suspected to be terrorists members of the self-styled “Democratic Republic of the Yoruba” (DRY) group for causing public disorder in Sango-Ota, Ogun State.
The arrests occurred on Christmas Day, December 25, following disturbances at Temidire Junction and the Under-Bridge area. The suspects allegedly blocked roads, set bonfires, disrupted traffic, and attacked police officers deployed to restore order.
Spokesperson Oluseyi Babaseyi confirmed that officers swiftly dispersed the group and arrested the suspects, who have been identified as Adewale Sosanya (48), Opeyemi Oladotun (31), Zara Gabriel (22), Ajoke Gabriel (19), Adewale Adebomojo (48), Yusuf Tanimowo (40), Olurotimi Ademola (52), and Toyin Gabriel (40).
Police recovered a Toyota Dyna vehicle, two broadcast speakers, flags, shirts, banners, and other items linked to the group’s activities. Investigations are ongoing, and the suspects are expected to be charged to court upon completion.
The Commissioner of Police in Ogun State reassured residents of the police’s commitment to maintaining security and warned that actions threatening public peace or targeting officers would face decisive consequences. Citizens were urged to report suspicious activities through the command’s emergency lines, including the toll-free Gateway Shield line at 0800 000 9111.
According to its website, the DRY declared sovereignty on April 12, 2024, under the leadership of Modupe Onitiri-Abiola, who the group calls the Mother of the Indigenous Yoruba People. Mobolaji Olawale Akinola Omokore serves as Head of its Provisional Government. The group claims to be Africa’s 55th nation-state and West Africa’s 17th, aiming to emerge peacefully without conflict.
