Evil Forest Of The Dead

On the 3rd of August 2004, a significant event took place in Nigeria. The Nigerian police conducted a raid on one of the country's most notorious and feared shrines, the Okija Shrine in Hiyala, Anambra State. The raid was prompted by an anonymous tip from a fellow native doctor, who surprisingly informed the police about something unusual and obscene happening in the Okija Shrine. The public was already familiar with the practices of the shrine, as it was well-known and infamous. However, the involvement of the police and the subsequent arrests marked a significant escalation in the situation.

In this article, we will delve into the practice of the Okija Shrine, its history, legends, and the scandal that brought it further into the limelight. Without the scandal, it is likely that fewer people would have been aware of its existence, and we would not be discussing it today. Additionally, we will explore the aftermath of the scandal if time permits.

When the police chief, Mr. Tafa Balogun, received the tip-off about the Ubuguapu Shrine, he swiftly mobilized his men. They embarked on a journey to the shrine, fully equipped with guns, handcuffs, and a photographer to document whatever they would find. As they ventured into the forest pathway leading to the shrines, they were met with a horrifying sight that left them disgusted and shocked.

Along the bushy pathway, they discovered a series of coffins and caskets. Initially, one might assume that they were merely wooden coffins left in the forest for some reason. However, upon closer inspection, it became evident that these coffins contained dead bodies. It was a disturbing sight to behold. Reportedly, there were over 80 coffins scattered throughout the Okija Shrine forest, each holding a deceased individual. The stench in the air was overwhelming, making it resemble a dumping ground for the dead.

The discovery raised numerous questions. Was this a case of money rituals? Or was there something more sinister at play? The bodies were not haphazardly thrown into the coffins; they were fully dressed and prepared for burial. It was clear that these individuals had died under various circumstances, been dressed and embalmed, and were intended for burial. However, instead of being laid to rest, they were abandoned in the forest of the Okija Shrine.

This grotesque scenario led to the arrest of over 40 native doctors and more than 50 worshippers. The police also seized over a hundred human skulls from various shrines within the Okija community. These skulls were likely in the shrines alongside the deceased bodies. Disturbing images of the arrest showed a man holding a casket surrounded by people with human skulls, although these images are often mistakenly associated with the Clifford Orji story.

The question arises: how did the Okija Shrine, known for its power and influence, reach such a point where the police had to intervene and bring the priests and worshippers to justice? What was their crime? To answer these questions, we must delve into the history and practices of the Okija Shrine.

The Okija Shrine is not a single shrine but a collection of over a hundred different shrines within the Okija community in Anambra State. Each shrine has its own unique role and function. These shrines have existed for generations, predating the arrival of colonial powers in Nigeria. They have continued to operate even after the scandal in 2004.

Before delving further, it is essential to clarify that the term "Okija Shrine" is often used interchangeably with the "Oguapu Shrine." However, it is important to note that there are numerous shrines in the Okija community, each with its distinct name and purpose. The scandal in question primarily revolves

around the Oguapu Shrine.

In pre-colonial Igbo society, the community did not have kings and monarchs as often portrayed in Nollywood movies. The society operated in a more communal and family-oriented manner, with leadership and governance handled by compound elders and kindred heads. The Okija Shrine played a vital role in this community, and it continues to hold significance to this day.

The events of 2004 brought the Okija Shrine to the forefront of public attention, sparking discussions about its practices and the role of traditional shrines in contemporary Nigerian society.