The Edo State Government has demolished a property in Amagba, Benin City, linked to suspected cult members, as part of an intensified crackdown on cult-related killings across the state.

The building was reportedly used by two suspected members of the Aye confraternity who were arrested, while five others escaped.

The action was confirmed in a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo, Patrick Ebojele.

Operation Flush Out Cultists

The demolition was carried out by the Special Security Squad, code-named Operation Flush Out Cultists and Kidnappers in Edo State, led by the Principal Security Officer to the governor.

Speaking after the exercise, the squad’s spokesperson, Eribo Enwanta, said the state’s anti-cultism law would be fully enforced.

“The governor has given us a mandate, and we will follow that mandate no matter who is involved. No one is bigger than the law,” he said.

Enwanta confirmed that four suspects — identified as Koko, Enas, Sparol, and others — remain wanted and would be arrested to face prosecution.

Youth Leaders Under Probe

The security team also summoned local youth leaders (Okiagheles) for questioning. Two of the three invited have reported and are being profiled, while Ken Dada, the Okiaghele of Obhagie, is yet to appear.

Enwanta warned that failure to honour the seven-day ultimatum could result in further action.

Interpol Tracks Suspect Abroad

Meanwhile, the squad sealed a residence in Upper Uwa, Benin, linked to Etiosa Akhiombare Joshua, also known as Baba Josh, a suspected Maphite Confraternity member accused of financing a recent killing.

Security officials disclosed that intelligence reports suggest he has relocated to Canada. The case has now been escalated to Interpol for international tracking.

Authorities allege that the suspect placed a N1 million bounty on a victim and funded the procurement of weapons used in the crime.

Anti-Cultism Law in Focus

In January 2025, Governor Okpebholo signed the Secret Cult and Similar Activities (Prohibition) Law, 2025, introducing stiff penalties including:

• Death penalty for cult-related killings

• 21-year jail term for active members and sponsors

• 10-year imprisonment and property demolition for landlords or school owners who harbour cultists

The state government reiterated its resolve to enforce the law strictly to end cult-related violence.

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