The Edo State Special Security Squad on cultism has arrested 20 suspects following a clampdown on cultists over the alleged killing of two people during a cult clash in Auchi and South Ibie, Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State.
The clash, it was gathered, reportedly happened at a popular hotel, the venue of a “signing out” party celebrating the successful completion of the last examination paper of a cult leader at Auchi Polytechnic. The squad also demolished four houses linked to suspected cultists in the area as a result of the killings.
Speaking after the demolition exercise, the squad’s secretary, John Izegaebe, said the arrests and demolitions followed the killing of a young man in South Ibie, an act tied to rival cult clashes.
According to him, the suspects, allegedly belonging to a cult group, were arrested at a hotel in the area.
He continued by saying that the demolished houses, located on Egbiadokhai Street in Auchi, Anoguele Street in Iyakpi, South Ibie, and the Ogodomiza Area of Ibie-Nafe, were reportedly owned by cult members.
He said one of the demolished buildings, reportedly owned by a cultist identified as “Too-Believe,” served as a regular meeting point for members of the Black Axe Confraternity.
He said the team had earlier raided one of the demolished buildings where they arrested two suspects identified as Momoh Austin, 17, and Joseph Oyazojo, 21.
He said the Secret Cult and Similar Activities (Prohibition) Law of 2025 prescribes life imprisonment or a minimum of 21 years for cult membership.
He added that the law also states that landlords or property owners who permit cult meetings risk at least 10 years in prison, along with the forfeiture and demolition of the property.
