The Edo State Government has commenced necessary legal consultations towards taking a decisive action against the Neo Black Movement, also known as Black Axe, over the recent spate of killings and cult-related violence in Edo State.
This was confirmed by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, in a statement on Monday, May 12.
The government’s decision, according to Itua, followed the public admission by self-acclaimed leaders of the group who openly identified themselves and condemned the lawful demolition of a building linked to their activities.
“By publicly aligning themselves with the structure and its usage, they have confirmed their association with the actions coordinated from the premises, thus paving the way for lawful prosecution.
“The building in question was not just a regular structure; it was a hub for planning and executing violent attacks across Benin metropolis and other parts of Edo State.
“No responsible government will watch helplessly as criminal enclaves flourish under its watch,” the statement read.
The CPS said that the demolition of the said property was in response to actionable intelligence, while it was carried out in line with the provisions of the anti-cultism law duly passed by the Edo State House of Assembly.
The statement further read: “In response to recent claims by the group that they have renovated six public schools in Edo State since Senator Monday Okpebholo assumed office as Executive Governor, the government demands a full disclosure.
“The group must, without delay, publicly list the names and locations of the schools allegedly renovated, provide documented proof of the said renovations, and present the official letter of approval or partnership granted by the Edo State Government authorising such actions.
“Failure to do so will result in immediate legal action for defamation, misrepresentation, and unauthorised interference in public infrastructure.
“To further entrench law and order, the state government will soon commence the development of a divisional police station on the parcel of land where the demolished cult-linked structure once stood. This permanent security presence will serve as a deterrent and protect law-abiding citizens and residents in the area.”
The state government warned that there would be further demolition of buildings and property linked to cultists and their criminal networks, saying that the Okpebholo-led administration, relying on the existing anti-cultism legislation, remained unwavering in its resolve to sanitize the state of all forms of cultism.
It said that as the Chief Security Officer of the state, Governor Okpebholo would not sit back and watch innocent citizens killed by criminal gangs hiding under the guise of cult groups.
It noted the governor’s sworn responsibility to protect lives and property, with his commitment to executing the mandate decisively.
“For the avoidance of doubt, Governor Okpebholo has no affiliation -past, present, or future – with any cult group or clandestine organisation.
“He remains neutral and committed solely to the welfare and safety of the people of Edo State.
“Any such group found operating within the state will be dismantled, and its members will be arrested and prosecuted without hesitation.
“Let it be made unequivocally clear: Edo State is not, and will never be, a safe haven for cultists. Anyone involved in cult-related activities is advised to cease and desist or relocate elsewhere.
“As long as Senator Monday Okpebholo remains the Executive Governor, Edo will be a hostile ground for cultism and all its manifestations.
“The anti-cultism law remains in full effect and will continue to be enforced. The Okpebholo administration will stop at nothing to rid Edo State of those who threaten peace, security, and the sanctity of human life,” the statement added.
