Edo Security Squad Tightens the Noose: 31 Cultists Apprehended in Central Raid, Others Given 7-Day Surrender Ultimatum

By Ngozi Okeibunor

In a major crackdown on cult-related violence, the Edo State Special Security Squad has apprehended 31 suspected cultists across a series of coordinated raids in Uromi, Edo Central Senatorial District. The operation has triggered a seven-day ultimatum for fleeing prime suspects to surrender or face “decisive consequences.”

The raids, executed on Sunday, November 16, 2025, were a direct response to a violent clash between rival cult groups—the Black Axe and Eiye confraternities—that occurred on November 13, which left one person severely injured.

Acting on credible intelligence, a joint security force led by the Governor’s Chief and Principal Security Officers, and including the Divisional Police Officer, the Nigerian Army, and local vigilantes, stormed multiple hideouts simultaneously. The targeted locations were Osigbemhe Lane, Arue Street in Ivue-Uromi, and the Ewoyi axis of Uromi.

Squad Coordinator, Idemudia Noah, confirmed that the operation recovered a cache of incriminating evidence, including battle axes, cult insignia, charms, and drugs, directly linking the suspects to the recent violence.

“This crackdown was intelligence-driven, following a clash that erupted from a dispute over a fraudulent transaction,” Noah stated. He identified two alleged ringleaders, Gift and Ache, who remain at large, noting that their properties have been sealed pending investigation.

All 31 apprehended suspects have been transferred to the Nigeria Police Force Area Command Headquarters in Uromi for processing and interrogation.

In a stern warning, the Squad issued a seven-day ultimatum to the fleeing suspects to turn themselves in. Authorities have launched a manhunt, vowing that defiance will not be tolerated.

A troubling aspect of the operation was the discovery of several underage individuals engaged in criminal activity. Noah described this as “deeply troubling” and issued a separate warning that the government may pursue legal action against the parents of such minors as a preventive measure.

During the raids, one suspect, Nathaniel Kingsley, arrested at Ewoyi-Uromi, denied cultism despite a Black Axe battle axe being recovered from his residence, admitting only to involvement in internet fraud.

Reaffirming the government’s position, Noah declared a zero-tolerance policy towards cultism. “Edo State will not serve as a haven for criminals. We are committed to safeguarding our communities and restoring public confidence,” he asserted.

The operation concluded with a show of force across parts of the Edo Central district, signaling the government’s sustained presence and readiness to neutralize emerging threats.