In a sweeping crackdown on cultism and organized crime, the Edo State government has demolished four properties linked to suspected cultists and arrested over 20 individuals during a series of coordinated security operations in Edo North.
The enforcement, spearheaded by the state’s Special Security Squad codenamed “Operation Flush Out Cultists and Kidnappers,” targeted Etsako West Local Government Area and other flashpoints across the region. The high-profile operation was led by the Chief Security Officer of Government House and the Governor’s Principal Security Officer (PSO).
Among the demolished properties was a house located on Egbiadokhai Street, behind Otaru Primary School in Auchi. The building, allegedly owned by a wanted cultist known as Too-Believe, was identified as a regular meeting venue for members of the notorious Black Axe confraternity. Security operatives recovered two cut-to-size firearms, two Black Axe berets, and a sharp axe from the premises.
Too-Believe remains at large and is considered a key figure in cult activities across the area.
The raids were launched in response to the recent killing of a young barber in South Ibie, which authorities say stemmed from rival cult clashes. Investigations linked the murder to members of both the Black Axe and Eiye confraternity.
Another house, located on Anoguele Street in Iyakpi, South-Ibie, and belonging to a suspect named Kuwat said to be an Eiye cult member was also pulled down. Kuwat reportedly fled before security agents arrived. He has been named as the suspected mastermind behind the barber’s murder.
In the Ogodomiza area of Ibie-Nafe, security forces demolished a third house tied to another cult leader. Prior to the demolition, two young men Momoh Austin (17) and Joseph Oyazojo (21) were arrested on-site. They confessed to being recruited for cybercrime activities, locally known as Yahoo Yahoo.
The crackdown extended to Hybrid Hotel and Suites in Elele, Uzairue, where additional suspects were apprehended during a related sting operation.
John Izegaegbe, Secretary of the State Security Squad, addressed reporters at one of the demolition sites, reiterating the government’s commitment to stamping out cultism.
“The governor gave cultists 166 days of grace to renounce their ways, with offers of soft loans and vocational training. That window was ignored. Now, desperate times call for desperate actions. This demolition is a warning landlords and cultists alike must steer clear of criminal activities or face the consequences.”
Security squad member Eribo Emwanta also urged vigilance, particularly from parents and hotel operators.
“We are cleaning up communities. Hotels and properties harboring criminals will be next.”
The enforcement is backed by the newly enacted Secret Cult and Similar Activities (Prohibition) Law 2025, which imposes severe penalties including life imprisonment or a minimum of 21 years for cult membership.
Landlords who knowingly allow cult activities on their properties face at least 10 years in prison, in addition to forfeiture and demolition of the property.
The state governor, Monday Okpebholo has maintained a zero-tolerance stance on cultism, warning that the government will continue with aggressive, intelligence-led operations across the state.