Kareem Abass, a local bricklayer in Osun State, had long been aware of the chaos caused by Omo Onile, ruthless individuals who extort contractors. However, in 2020, he became a victim of their actions. Abass was cut with a cutlass but managed to flee the scene in time. Unfortunately, some of his colleagues were not as fortunate.
Omo Onile, a Yoruba term meaning “the one who owns the land,” illegally taxes landowners at construction sites. Abass was beaten and molested because he refused to comply with their demands. These extortionists are widespread across Nigeria, particularly in the Southwest – Lagos, Ibadan, and Osun States.
For Kara House, Popoola Ademola spent five months investigating and documenting reports to expose the activities of these hoodlums and the hardships they impose on vulnerable individuals, including landowners, site engineers, and bricklayers in Osun, particularly in Osogbo, the capital city.
He interviewed over 10 residents of Osogbo and more than 5 landowners and victims who shared stories of assault and extortion they suffered at the hands of these gangs.
Over 10 years ago, the Omo Onile crisis was merely news on the radio and television for residents of Osun State. Realtors and landlords like Adewale Adebayo had a flourishing business, turning plain lands into homes.
Omo Onile has now taken over Osun State, resorting to violence against bricklayers and threatening to destroy buildings when owners refuse to pay illegal dues. Sakura Kajogbola was just recovering from the shock of her recent divorce when she began building her house – a small bungalow for herself and her children.
She hired Abass for the job, and it was during this project that he first encountered the Omo Oniles.
