On August 16, 2024, the Edo State Special Task Force on Anti-Cultism announced the apprehension of 11 suspected cult members across various locations in the state. This decisive action is part of the government’s intensified efforts to combat the rising tide of cult-related violence that has claimed numerous young lives in recent years.
During a press conference detailing the task force’s operations, Chris Nehikhare, the Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, outlined the collaborative nature of the task force, which comprises eight security agencies and four government ministries. He emphasized that the task force is committed to eradicating cultism and warned individuals involved in such activities that no one is immune from the law, regardless of their political, religious, or social status.
Nehikhare stated, “The Edo State Special Task Force on Anti-Cultism has made it clear that there will be no sanctuary for cultists in our state.” The task force was established under the administration of Governor Godwin Obaseki in response to the alarming increase in cult-related killings, which have particularly affected the youth demographic. The directive is explicit: to confront cultism with an unyielding approach.
Since its inception, the task force has been proactive in its mission, initially focusing on education and community engagement to deter young people from joining cults. However, the approach has evolved to include strategic intelligence operations leading to the arrest of key cult members. For instance, on August 7, 2024, operatives arrested three suspected cultists within the Auchi Polytechnic community.
A significant operation took place on August 10, 2024, when task force members executed a large-scale raid in Benin City based on actionable intelligence. This operation led to the arrest of two suspects at a hotel where cult members were reportedly convening. The crackdown continued with the capture of a prominent cult leader in the Ekosodin area of Ovia North East Local Government Area.
Further intensifying their efforts, the task force conducted a pre-dawn raid the following day, resulting in the arrest of five more notorious cultists, including high-ranking leaders and an individual known as a butcher. Nehikhare confirmed that a total of 11 suspects are currently in custody, with ongoing investigations to uncover additional information and leads.
“This is merely the beginning of our campaign against cultism,” Nehikhare warned. “We have a comprehensive list of targets, and the task force will pursue them relentlessly until every last cultist is held accountable. No one is above the law.”
He issued a stern warning to current cult members, urging them to abandon their affiliations or face severe legal repercussions. He also called on parents to remain vigilant and guide their children away from the destructive path of cultism. The commitment of the Edo State government, led by Governor Obaseki, to restoring peace and security is unwavering.
Governor Obaseki has pledged to enforce the recently enacted anti-cultism law to its fullest extent. The Special Task Force on Anti-Cultism is equipped with the authority to dismantle all cult activities and enforce a ban on notorious groups such as the Okaighele. Nehikhare concluded with a resolute statement: “We will not rest until Edo State is liberated from the grips of cultism. This is a battle we are determined to win.”
The ongoing fight against cultism in Edo State underscores the government’s dedication to safeguarding its citizens and fostering a safer environment for the youth. As the task force continues its operations, the message is clear: the state will not tolerate cult-related activities, and justice will prevail.
