No Hiding Place for Cultists — Edo Govt Seals Shrines, Declares Leaders Wanted

The Edo State Government has stepped up its war against cultism, criminal gangs, and ritual practices, sealing multiple properties linked to suspected cult leaders after uncovering a shrine in Egbaen community and a violent cult clash in Evboyare that left one person dead.

The operation, codenamed “Flush Out Cultists and Kidnappers,” was carried out on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, by security operatives led by the coordinator, Idemudia Noah, in collaboration with other allied agencies.

At Egbaen in Egor Local Government Area, operatives stormed a deserted building where they uncovered a hidden shrine at the back of the premises. Inside, investigators discovered a white casket and fetish objects believed to have been used for initiation rituals. The State Government immediately ordered the sealing of the property, signaling its resolve to dismantle both the physical and spiritual structures that sustain cult groups.

In a parallel raid at Evboyare, Uhunmwode Local Government Area the scene of a bloody clash between rival cult groups, the Eiye and Maphite confraternities operatives sealed the home of suspected Maphite leader, Felix Aigbedion, who has since been declared wanted. The clash left one man, identified as Festus, dead, while homes, vehicles, and other properties in the community were destroyed.

Security agents also recovered two locally made firearms from a poultry house that investigators say was converted into an armory by cultists.

Speaking after the operation, Noah said the actions demonstrate the government’s zero tolerance for cult violence under Governor Monday Okpebholo.

“The administration of Governor Okpebholo is determined to rid Edo State of cult-related killings and criminal syndicates. We have sealed the Egbaen property of Mr. Marvellous Adetarami, where a shrine was uncovered, and the Evboyare residence of Mr. Felix Aigbedion, implicated in the fatal cult clash. These steps are not symbolic; they are a strong message that Edo will no longer tolerate clandestine activities,” Noah stated.

He further revealed that investigators found disturbing evidence of extortion during initiation, with victims being forced to transfer money to cult groups. He warned that prosecution will follow swiftly, stressing that the Police had been fully briefed.

Issuing a stern warning to cultists and their sponsors, Noah declared:

“Cultists have only two choices: renounce or leave Edo State. The full weight of the law will crush anyone who persists. This government is committed to securing Edo for its people and ensuring peace, stability, and a safe environment for business and community life.”