The Edo State Government has issued a seven-day ultimatum to three community youth leaders (Okiagheles) to appear before its Special Security Squad, “Operation Flush Out Cultists and Kidnappers,” following renewed cult-related violence in Benin City.
The Okiaghele of Obazagbon Community, Innocent Okunozee, identified as a member of the Black Axe Confraternity, is already in custody. Those directed to report include the Okiagheles of Obagie, Ofumwengbe, and Ara communities.
Recent raids by the Special Security Squad, led by the Principal Security Officer to the Governor, resulted in the arrest of suspected cultists in Amagba (Oredo) and Obagie (Ikpoba-Okha). Two Black Axe suspects, Osazee Omoruyi and Osahon Anito, were arrested at Amagba, with investigations linking the fleeing Okiagheles and five others to recent killings.
Weapons and ammunition were also allegedly recovered from a vehicle linked to Okunozee.
The Squad’s spokesperson, Eribo Enwanta, listed five wanted cult suspects known by their aliases: Enas, Koko, Amani Amani, Sparol, and Dada.
Authorities urged the public to provide information that could lead to the arrest of the fugitives, assuring that no suspect would evade justice.
Suspect Osaze Omoruyi (aka Demond Tutu) admitted to being an internet fraudster and Black Axe member but denied involvement in the killings. He claimed a Lexus jeep tied to the crimes was brought home by an associate along with firearms and ammunition.
The press release was signed and made available to reporters by Patrick Akhere Ebojele, PhD Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo.
