Cultism in Edo State has been a persistent issue but took a new dimension since after the September 21 election, with various groups perpetrating violence and crime. Owing to this fact, some people refer to Edo State as” the home of Cultism.”
A lot of cult wars and clashes have taken place over the years, killing so many people, some of whom are innocent. Earlier this year, the Edo State Special Task Force on Anti-Cultism arrested 11 suspected cultists, including leaders of notorious groups, in a bid to curb the menace. This move is part of Governor Godwin Obaseki’s efforts to restore peace and security in the state.
The task force has demonstrated unwavering commitment to ridding the state of cultism. Initial efforts focused on education and persuasion, engaging with communities and stakeholders to dissuade youths from joining cults. However, the task force has now shifted its focus to making arrests and prosecuting cult members.
Three suspected cultists were arrested within the Auchi Polytechnic community on August 7, 2024, massive show of force was conducted in Benin City on August 10, 2024, resulting in the arrest of two suspects and a key cult leader was arrested in the Ekosodin axis of Ovia North East Local Government Area on August 13, 2024
The Edo government said a total of 129 cases of homicide and cult related crises were recorded in the state within two months (June and July). This information was disclosed by Governor Obaseki. In an effort to curb this menace, Governor Obaseki banned cultism in the state, making it clear that his administration would not tolerate it.
More recently, six persons were reportedly killed in a renewed cult-related crisis in Auchi and South Ibie communities in Etsako West Local Government Area. It was also learned that the fight that was initially between Eiye and Vicky confraternities later involved Black Axe, causing the clash among Eiye, Vikys and Black Axe confraternities. This clash left several persons injured.
According to reports, the involvement of Black Axe ensued when one of the Black Axe members was mistakenly shot at a hotel during a misunderstanding between the two rival cult groups.
Two of the victims were reportedly killed on the 6th while four were killed between 8th and 10th of October, bringing the total number of victims to six.
Meanwhile, the alleged war of supremacy between cult groups reportedly engulfed a university community in the state. The students were said to have been writing second semester examinations when the cult war started.
In the course of the fight, one of the victims who was said to be a driver was killed on October 10th in broad daylight in the area.
It was gathered that his assailants after shooting him severally without bullet penetration, tied him to their vehicle and dragged him on the tarred road till he gave up the ghost.
When contacted the Public Relations Officer of the Edo State Police Command, SP Moses Yamu, confirmed the incident but didn’t state the numbers of casualties.
Yamu said the situation has been brought under control and that investigation is still ongoing.
Some of the notable cult groups in the state include the Neo-Black Movement of Africa, also known as Black Axe, which allegedly emerged from the University of Benin. Other groups such as the Supreme Vikings Confraternity and the Eternal Fraternal Order of the Legion Consortium have also been linked to violent activities. These violent activities and constant clashes that always lead to deaths should encourage the young ones to steer clear of cult related activities. It is however surprising how cult clashes happen in Edo every month. The youths can do better.
While the government has a role to play in securing and managing the affairs of the state, residents also have a role to play by shunning vices as this will aid peace and calm in the state.
The government urges parents to be vigilant and steer their children away from cultism, emphasizing that no one is above the law.
The situation remains volatile, with concerns about the safety and security of residents. It’s essential for stakeholders to prioritize peace and stability, ensuring that the state does not slide further into chaos.
