The Edo State Government (EDSG) has issued a seven-day ultimatum to the traditional leaders of three communities—commonly referred to as Okiagheles—to report to the Special Security Squad, code-named “Operation Flush Out Cultists and Kidnappers,” following a recent surge in cult-related activities in Benin City.
The Okiaghele of Obazagbon Community, Innocent Okunozee, a suspected member of the Black Axe Confraternity, is already in custody. Those yet to comply include the Okiagheles of Obagie, Ofumwengbe, and Ara Communities, who have been ordered to appear at the Government House to clarify their roles in the recent incidents.
The directive follows a series of raids by the Special Security Squad, led by the Principal Security Officer (PSO) to the Edo State Governor, targeting suspected cultists in Amagba Community (Oredo LGA) and Obagie Community (Ikpoba-Okah LGA). The operations resulted in the arrest of suspected members Osazee Omoruyi and Osahon Anito, while five others remain on the run.
Spokesperson for the Squad, Eribo Enwanta, explained that preliminary investigations have linked the Okiagheles and the five fugitives to recent cult-related killings. Weapons and live ammunition were recovered from a highlander jeep driven by the cousin of Okunozee, community CSO Godspower Obayuwana.
Enwanta urged residents to provide any information that could assist in apprehending the fleeing suspects, identified by nicknames: Enas, Koko, Amani Amani, Sparol, and Dada. He emphasized that the law will catch up with those evading arrest.
Meanwhile, Osaze Omoruyi, also known as Demond Tutu, admitted to being an internet fraudster and a Black Axe member since 2012 but denied involvement in the recent killings. He revealed that a Lexus jeep, recovered by security forces, was allegedly used in the attacks, along with firearms and live ammunition.
Secretary of the Special Security Squad, John Eshekiagbe, assured that the government remains committed to ensuring a cult-free Edo State, promising further arrests and prosecutions as investigations continue.
This strong action underscores Edo State’s intensified effort to curb cultism and restore safety in communities affected by violence.
