The Oyo State Police Command has deployed personnel across the state ahead of the Founders’ Day celebration of the Neo-Black Movement of Africa (Aiye Confraternity), popularly known as the Black Axe cult.
This was announced in a statement issued in Ibadan at the weekend by the state Police Public Relations Officer, Adewale Osifeso.
The annual celebration, marked every July 7, is scheduled for Monday, July 7, 2025.
Osifeso stated, “Our intelligence-led policing and community partnership efforts have revealed that rival gangs may engage in large-scale retribution and violence during this event. To ensure swift response and maintain order, arrangements have been concluded for the deployment of officers to strategic locations across the state.”
He added that the command had conducted sensitisation sessions with key stakeholders, including hoteliers, lounge owners, and operators of studio apartments, as part of proactive security measures.
Osifeso warned operators against allowing their premises to host gatherings linked to cult groups known for violent activities.
“Our intelligence suggests that the movement may use the occasion to execute plans that could lead to serious public disorder, including reprisals against rival groups,” he said.
The PPRO urged parents, guardians, community leaders, and influential figures to engage with law enforcement to mitigate risks.
“It is crucial to talk to our youth about the dangers of cultism and the severe consequences of participating in violent or unlawful gatherings,” he advised.
