Temisan Olaifa
The Edo State Government has issued a strong warning and has commenced necessary legal consultations towards taking decisive legal action against the Neo-Black Movement, also known as Black Axe, over the recent spate of killings and cult-related violence in Edo State.
It said the decision was premised on public admission by self-acclaimed leaders of the group, who he said have openly identified themselves and condemned the demolition of a building linked to their activities.
A statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Fred Itua on Monday said that by publicly aligning themselves with the structure and its usage, members of the group have confirmed their association with the actions coordinated from the premises—thus paving the way for lawful prosecution.
The statement read in part, ‘‘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.
‘‘In response to recent claims by the group that they have renovated six public schools in Edo State since Senator Monday Okpebholo assumed office as Executive Governor, the Government demands a full disclosure.’’
It added that the group must, without delay, publicly list the names and locations of the schools allegedly renovated, provide documented proof of the said renovations, and present the official letter of approval or partnership granted by the Edo State Government authorising such actions.
‘‘Failure to do so will result in immediate legal action for defamation, misrepresentation, and unauthorized interference in public infrastructure.
‘‘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,’’ it added.
The statement warned that 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.
‘‘As the Chief Security Officer of the state, Governor Okpebholo will not sit back and watch innocent citizens killed by criminal gangs hiding under the guise of cult groups. It is the governor’s sworn responsibility to protect lives and property, and he is committed to executing that mandate decisively.
‘‘For the avoidance of doubt, Governor Okpebholo has no affiliation—past, present, or future—with any cult group or clandestine organisation. He remains neutral and committed solely to the welfare and safety of the people of Edo State. Any such group found operating within the state will be dismantled, and its members will be arrested and prosecuted without hesitation,’’ the statement added.
