The Edo State Government has escalated its crackdown on cultism, announcing plans to take decisive legal action against the Neo Black Movement, popularly known as Black Axe, following a surge in cult-related killings and violence across the state.
Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration issued the warning on Monday through a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, after leaders of the group publicly condemned the recent demolition of a building linked to their activities, effectively confirming their association with the property.
The state government described the demolished structure as a hub for coordinating violent attacks in Benin City and other parts of Edo, insisting that no responsible administration would tolerate such criminal enclaves.
“The building in question was not just a regular structure; it was a hub for planning and executing violent attacks across Benin metropolis and other parts of Edo State. No responsible government will watch helplessly as criminal enclaves flourish under its watch.
The demolition of that property was a direct response to actionable intelligence, and it was carried out in line with the provisions of the Anti-cultism Law duly passed by the Edo State House of Assembly”, the statement read.
The demolition, carried out under the state’s Anti-Cultism Law, was based on actionable intelligence, authorities said. In a sharp rebuttal to claims by the group that it had renovated six public schools since Governor Okpebholo assumed office, the government demanded immediate proof, including the names and locations of the schools, documented evidence of renovations, and official approval letters from the state. Failure to provide these details, the government warned, would result in legal action for defamation and misrepresentation.
In a further move to reinforce security, the state revealed plans to build a divisional police station on the land where the demolished cult hideout once stood. The measure, officials said, would serve as a permanent deterrent to criminal elements while safeguarding law-abiding residents.
The government also warned that more properties linked to cultists would be demolished in the coming days, reaffirming Governor Okpebholo’s commitment to eradicating cultism under the existing anti-cultism legislation.
The governor, who denied any past or present affiliation with cult groups, vowed that Edo would remain hostile territory for such organisations as long as he remained in office.
“To further entrench law and order, the State Government will soon commence the development of a divisional police station on the parcel of land where the demolished cult-linked structure once stood. This permanent security presence will serve as a deterrent and protect law-abiding citizens and residents in the area.
“More demolitions of buildings and properties linked to cultists and their criminal networks will follow in the coming days. The Okpebholo-led administration, relying on the existing anti-cultism legislation, remains unwavering in its resolve to sanitize Edo State of all forms of cultism.
“Let it be made unequivocally clear: Edo State is not, and will never be, a safe haven for cultists,” the statement read. “Anyone involved in cult-related activities is advised to cease and desist or relocate elsewhere.”
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