On that fateful night in 2021, amidst a complex operation, the Department of State Services (DSS) found themselves immersed in an unusual controversy – the vanishing of a cat during a night raid on the residence of Yoruba nation activist, Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho. Amidst the chaos and tension, the unexplained arrest of a cat became emblematic of the strange occurrences that transpired. This mysterious event serves as a stark reminder of the incongruity within law enforcement priorities, raising important ethical questions about the treatment of animals in Nigeria.
In the annals of Nigeria’s law enforcement, the Department of State Services (DSS) holds a formidable reputation for ensuring national security. However, an intriguing and somewhat surreal incident occurred in 2021, unveiling a rather bizarre side to the agency’s activities – the mysterious disappearance of a cat during a DSS operation.
In a bone-chilling account given to Punch newspaper on October 24, 2021, Onaolapo Ademola, an associate of Igboho, recounted the horrifying events of the midnight raid on Igboho’s Ibadan residence by the Department of State Services (DSS) and others. Ademola, who was present in the house during the raid and was later released on bail from DSS custody, painted a disturbing picture of the operation, likening it to a Gestapo-style assault. He revealed that when the DSS failed to locate Igboho, they resorted to employing herbalists who chanted incantations in an attempt to summon him back. When their attempts failed, frustration boiled over into cruelty – DSS officers killed some of the cats and seized one, claiming the herbalists identified it as the transformed Igboho.
This incident exposes the surreal and alarming convergence of superstition, brutality, and animal cruelty within the realm of law enforcement in Nigeria, showcasing a dark and troubling facet of the country’s justice system.
Under the shadow of former President Muhammadu Buhari’s authoritarian regime, Nigeria experienced a period of stringent military-style democracy. Law enforcement agencies, including the police, DSS, and civil defense, often acted with militaristic aggression when dealing with ordinary citizens. The echoes of this harsh approach reverberated through the nation, leaving scars of fear and resentment.
However, amidst this atmosphere, a glimmer of hope emerged with the gradual shift toward a more liberal mindset, championed by leaders like the American-trained President Bola Tinubu.
In this transformative phase, where the shackles of brutality are beginning to loosen, a remarkable tale unfolds. It’s the story of Sunday Igboho, a man detained under the previous administration in Benin Republic and subsequently placed under house arrest. Today, he stands liberated, reunited with his family in Germany, on his way back to Nigeria. Yet, amidst this tale of freedom, a lingering question persists – where is the cat?
In the intricate web of Nigeria’s security apparatus, the Department of State Services (DSS) shoulders multifaceted responsibilities, primarily centered on counterintelligence, internal security, counterterrorism, and surveillance. However, recent events have unfurled a bewildering anomaly – the inexplicable disappearance of a cat during a DSS operation, prompting bewildering queries about the agency’s unexpected entanglement with animals. One can’t help but ponder: since when did innocent and gentle creatures like cats become instruments of internal security and surveillance?
These events have brought forth a bizarre anomaly – the disappearance of a cat during a DSS operation, raising perplexing questions about the agency’s involvement with animals.
One of the most baffling incidents occurred when the Department of State Services (DSS) raided the residence of activist Sunday Igboho. In an attempt to apprehend him, they reportedly took away a cat, suspecting it might be the activist in disguise. Fast forward to today, and Igboho is comfortably settled in Germany, while the fate of the cat remains unknown, highlighting the enduring influence of superstitions on significant decisions.
While my professional and personal paths have never crossed with Sunday Igboho’s, his recent journey to Germany serves as a reflection of the broader issues plaguing Nigerian society. Beyond the individual, it highlights the systemic challenges surrounding superstitions, comical beliefs, and the often-bizarre treatment of animals within the context of law enforcement. This incident becomes a microcosm, inviting a larger conversation about the urgent need for cultural sensitivity and animal rights in Nigeria.
This narrative delves into the urgency of acknowledging animal rights, the implications of the DSS’s actions, and the call for justice and compassion. As advocates for animal welfare and empathy, we question the ethicality of such actions. If the DSS cannot produce the missing cat, it raises not only legal but moral questions. This section explores the importance of holding authorities accountable for their actions, advocating for transparency and justice for the animals they are responsible for.
While Nigeria lacks specific legislation addressing animal welfare, existing provisions in the Criminal Code hint at the recognition of animals’ capacity to suffer. This segment dissects the limitations of current laws, emphasizing the need for comprehensive animal welfare legislation that aligns with international standards. A robust legal framework is vital in safeguarding animals from cruelty and ensuring perpetrators face appropriate consequences.
The absence of clear legal guidelines underscores the necessity for societal education. This section advocates for widespread awareness campaigns, promoting empathy towards animals and dispelling harmful myths and superstitions. By fostering a compassionate society, Nigeria can pave the way for legislation rooted in understanding and respect for all living beings.
Igboho, as a prominent figure, has the potential to catalyze change. By taking legal action against the DSS for the disappearance of the cat and other animal rights violations, he can serve as a beacon of justice. This part explores the significance of his potential lawsuit, not only as a means of seeking justice for the animals but also as a statement against cruelty and inhumanity.
Examining successful animal welfare models worldwide offers valuable insights. This segment highlights progressive countries where stringent legislation and societal empathy have created harmonious environments for both humans and animals. By drawing parallels, Nigeria can aspire to adopt similar practices, fostering a culture of respect for all living creatures.
The journey towards a compassionate society begins with acknowledging the sentience of animals and their right to live free from cruelty. Igboho’s experience serves as a catalyst for change, prompting not only legal action but also societal reflection. By embracing empathy, educating the public, and enacting comprehensive animal welfare laws, Nigeria can usher in an era where all beings are treated with dignity and compassion. The unanswered question remains: Where is the missing cat, and what will Nigeria do to ensure justice prevails for all its creatures?
The baffling disappearance of the cat in 2021 remains an unsolved mystery, symbolizing the broader struggle faced by animals in Nigeria – a struggle that demands attention, compassion, and legislative action. As the nation grapples with this peculiar tale, it’s imperative to recognize the need for change, urging authorities to address the gaps in animal rights legislation and fostering a society where the welfare of all beings, both human and animal, is prioritized.
In the complex tapestry of Nigerian society, where deep-rooted cultural beliefs and superstitions frequently clash with the essential concepts of animal rights and empathy, the case of Igboho, now in Germany, raises pressing questions about the very fabric of societal values and the methods employed by law enforcement in Nigeria. As a psychologist intricately attuned to the intersections of cultural beliefs, animal rights, and human behavior, this narrative delves into the necessity for a nuanced comprehension of these intricate complexities.
This enigmatic event not only raises questions about the DSS’s unexpected involvement with animals but also shines a spotlight on the urgent need for comprehensive and standout animal rights legislation in Nigeria.
This incident becomes a lens through which we explore the critical need for robust animal rights legislation in Nigeria. While the DSS grapples with matters of national security, the absence of laws protecting animals leaves them vulnerable to exploitation and cruelty. Through poignant narratives, expert opinions, and satirical anecdotes, we highlight the urgent consequences of this legal vacuum. We dissect the global landscape of animal rights, drawing parallels with nations that have progressive legislation, and emphasize the pressing need for Nigeria to catch up and safeguard the rights and welfare of its animals.
There is need to underscore the incongruity of a society where cats mysteriously vanish amidst overarching security concerns. Through the voices of passionate animal rights activists, legal experts, and empathetic citizens, we make a compelling case for change. Satirical scenarios, heartfelt pleas, and witty commentary encourage readers to join the movement, advocating for legislative reforms that protect animals and promote a more humane society.
In the bewildering saga of recent events in Nigeria, where age-old superstitions clash with the modern world, it’s time for our society to break free from the chains of irrational beliefs. The confounding encounters involving law enforcement agencies and their interactions with animals have left the nation in a state of perplexity. As we navigate the complexities of beliefs in the 21st century, it is crucial to bid adieu to ancient superstitions and usher in an era of enlightenment.
This situation might sound like a scene from a surreal movie, but it serves as a stark reminder of the curious beliefs that continue to pervade our society. The notion of humans transforming into animals belongs in the realm of mythology, not within the corridors of law enforcement agencies. It’s a testament to the enduring power of superstition that such ideas can influence substantial decisions even in the 21st century.
In more progressive parts of the world, harming animals is not merely frowned upon but punishable by law. The FBI, the United States’ preeminent law enforcement agency, meticulously tracks cases of animal cruelty and considers it a felony in numerous states. It’s a resounding message: society’s compassion extends to all creatures, emphasizing the importance of their rights being respected.
In the heart of this mysterious saga lies a fundamental truth – animals, especially beloved pets like cats, are more than just creatures; they are companions, confidants, and cherished members of our families. Igboho’s missing cat transcends the realm of a mere mystery; it becomes a symbol of the emotional bond between humans and animals, a bond woven with trust, love, and shared moments of joy.
As the nation embarks on a quest to find the missing feline, it’s not just about locating a pet; it’s about acknowledging the profound roles animals play in our lives.
Cats, with their independent yet affectionate nature, become integral parts of our homes, offering solace in times of despair and companionship in moments of solitude. Igboho’s demand for his cat isn’t just a call for the return of a pet; it’s a plea to recognize the emotional void left by its absence and the significance of preserving the emotional fabric that binds families to their animal companions.
Beyond the individual, it highlights the systemic challenges surrounding superstitions, comical beliefs, and the often-bizarre treatment of animals within the context of law enforcement. This incident becomes a microcosm, inviting a larger conversation about the urgent need for cultural sensitivity and animal rights in Nigeria. It is essential to clarify that, as a writer and psychologist, I have never had any association with Igboho.
I conclude by shedding light on the often-overlooked emotional roles our animal friends play in our lives. We delve into stories of unconditional love and unwavering loyalty, emphasizing the need for a society that not only values these connections but also protects the rights and emotional well-being of animals. As we navigate the complexities of this missing cat saga, we find ourselves immersed in a narrative that challenges societal norms, urging us to redefine our relationship with the animal kingdom and honor the multifaceted roles animals play in our lives.
Examining successful animal welfare models worldwide offers valuable insights.
This segment highlights progressive countries where stringent legislation and societal empathy have created harmonious environments for both humans and animals. By drawing parallels, Nigeria can aspire to adopt similar practices, fostering a culture of respect for all living creatures.
In the quest of justice and accountability, it is imperative to foster an environment where constructive criticism is not only welcomed but also acted upon by law enforcement and security agencies. The usual habit of deploying compromised or paid reporters and public commentators to retaliate against those advocating for positive change only exacerbates the existing challenges. Instead, these agencies must encourage a culture of open discourse, where well-intentioned analysis is met with thoughtful reflection and proactive measures.
The journey towards a compassionate society begins with acknowledging the sentience of animals and their right to live free from cruelty. Igboho’s experience serves as a catalyst for change, prompting not only legal action but also societal reflection. By embracing empathy, educating the public, and enacting comprehensive animal welfare laws, Nigeria can usher in an era where all beings are treated with dignity and compassion. The unanswered question remains: DSS where is the ‘arrested’ cat, and what will Nigeria do to ensure justice prevails for all its creatures?
Professor John Egbeazien Oshodi, who was born in Uromi, Edo State, Nigeria, to a father who served in the Nigeria police for 37 years, is an American-based police and prison scientist and forensic, clinical, and legal psychologist. A government consultant on matters of forensic-clinical psychological services in the USA; and a former interim associate dean and assistant professor at Broward College, Florida. The Founder of the Dr. John Egbeazien Oshodi Foundation, Center for Psychological Health and Behavioral Change in African Settings. In 2011, he introduced state-of-the-art forensic psychology into Nigeria through N.U.C. and Nasarawa State University, where he served in the Department of Psychology as an Associate Professor. He has taught at various universities and colleges including Florida memorial University, Florida International University, Broward college, Lynn University, and a contributing faculty member at the Weldios university in Benin Republic, Nexus International University, Uganda, Nova Southeastern University and Walden University in USA. He is a Human Rights Psychologist with a focus on African related environments. [email protected]
The post DSS, Where Is the Cat? Igboho Is Out, It’s Time to Fully Recognize Animal Rights and Functions in Nigeria -By John Egbeazien Oshodi first appeared on Africans Angle.
