The Edo State Government has issued a seven-day ultimatum to three community youth leaders, popularly known as Okiagheles, to appear before the State Special Security Squad over their alleged links to the resurgence of cult-related killings in Benin City.
The directive was contained in a statement released by Patrick Ebojele, spokesperson to Governor Monday Okpebholo.
According to the statement, the move follows recent security operations carried out across affected communities after a spike in violent incidents.
Security raids were conducted in parts of the state, leading to the arrest of suspected cult members in the Amagba community within Oredo Local Government Area and the Obagie community in Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area.
Authorities also confirmed that the Okiaghele of Obazagbon community, Innocent Okunozee, alleged to be linked to the Black Axe Confraternity, is currently in custody.
Ebojele quoted the Squad’s spokesperson, Eribo Enwanta, as saying the arrest followed the recovery of weapons and live ammunition from a vehicle allegedly driven by the community’s Chief Security Officer, Godspower Obayuwana, who is reported to be related to the suspect.
The state government has directed the Okiagheles of Obagie, Ofumwengbe, and Ara communities to report to the Special Security Squad within seven days to clarify their alleged connection to the recent killings.
Officials said the directive forms part of ongoing efforts to curb cult-related violence and restore security across affected areas.
