3 weeks ago
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Edo State Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Chris Nehikhare
The Edo Special Taskforce on Anti-Cultism has issued a warning to cult groups causing unrest in the state, advising them to leave or face arrest.
The task force also condemned the recent killings linked to suspected cultists in various parts of Edo.
The State Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Chris Nehikhare, who is also a member of the Special Task Force gave the warning while addressing reporters in Benin on Wednesday.
Nehikhare said, “There is no space for cultists and cult-related activities in the state.”
He also expressed concern over Sunday’s disturbances caused by suspected cultists, stating that investigations into violent clashes between rival groups in Benin are underway.
He added that multiple arrests have been made and efforts continue to apprehend other leaders and fleeing suspects.
He noted that the violence led to the loss of young lives in the state. According to Nehikhare, preliminary investigations indicate that members of the Eiye and Vikings confraternities were involved, reportedly battling for supremacy in the affected areas.
He stated, “Upon receiving intelligence about this situation, the Edo State Special Task Force on Anti-Cultism immediately intensified patrols and launched a manhunt for the key leaders of the identified groups.
“The swift and coordinated response of the task force successfully contained the violence, preventing further bloodshed and averting potential escalation. A series of arrests have already been made, and efforts are ongoing to apprehend other key actors and fleeing suspects. Patrol operations have also been reinforced in identified hotspots to forestall any resurgence of violence.”
The task force reassured the public of their safety, committing to ensure that all identified leaders and members involved in these acts were brought to justice.
Nehikhare highlighted that the task force’s proactive approach to eradicating cult groups has strong backing from the Godwin Obaseki-led administration, which is dedicated to maintaining peace, stability, and security across the state.
