The Edo State Government has demolished a building in Amagba, on the outskirts of Benin City, allegedly linked to suspected cult members arrested in connection with recent cult-related killings in the state.
The demolition was carried out by the Special Security Squad, codenamed Operation Flush Out Cultists and Kidnappers in Edo State, led by the Principal Security Officer to the Governor.
Briefing journalists after the exercise, the Squad’s spokesperson, Mr. Eribo Enwanta, stated that the government remains committed to enforcing the state’s anti-cultism law to its fullest extent, stressing that efforts are underway to eliminate cult-related violence across Edo.
According to him, “The Governor has given us a clear mandate, and we will carry out that mandate regardless of who is involved. No one is above the law. We have demolished this property, and those who escaped during the operation remain wanted. Koko, Enas, Sparol and others are still being pursued and will be arrested to face justice for the atrocities committed.”
Mr. Enwanta also confirmed that two of the three Okiagheles earlier invited for questioning have complied and are currently undergoing profiling, while the seven-day ultimatum issued to the Okiaghele of Obagie, Ken Dada, remains in effect.
“We gave the Okiaghele of Obagie seven days to present himself, and that ultimatum is still counting. The law must be respected. If he fails to comply within the stipulated time, he will be declared wanted and the full weight of the law will be applied,” he warned.
Meanwhile, the Special Security Squad sealed a residence in the Upper Uwa area of Benin City, identified as the last known address of Etiosa Akhiombare Joshua, popularly known as Baba Josh, who is suspected to be a member of the Maphite Confraternity and the alleged mastermind and financier of last week’s killing at Wire Road.
Mr. Enwanta disclosed that intelligence reports indicate the suspect may have relocated to Canada, prompting the Edo State Government to seek the assistance of Interpol in tracking and extraditing him to face prosecution.
He further stated that all properties linked to the suspect would remain sealed pending his surrender.
“We have involved Interpol and there will be no hiding place for him or his collaborators. Anyone involved in cult killings in Edo State will be brought to justice. We will not be intimidated. The Governor’s mandate to ensure the safety and security of residents will be fully executed,” he added.
The Edo State Government reiterated its resolve to intensify the ongoing crackdown on cultism and criminal activities, assuring residents of sustained security operations aimed at restoring peace and order across the state.