In a decisive move against rising cult activity, the Edo State Government has demolished a building in Amagba, Oredo Local Government Area, linked to the Aye confraternity. The action follows the arrest of two individuals suspected of involvement in recent cult-related killings in the state.
Dr. Patrick Ebojele, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, confirmed the demolition in a statement released on Thursday. He stated that the building served as a hideout for members of the Aye cult. Seven individuals are allegedly connected to the recent surge in cult violence, with two currently in custody and five still at large.
The demolition was executed by the Special Security Squad, known as “Operation Flush Out Cultists and Kidnappers in Edo,” under the direction of the Governor’s principal security officer. The operation underscores the government’s commitment to enforcing the state’s anti-cultism laws rigorously.
“Governor Okpebholo has given that mandate, and it must be followed thoroughly, no matter who is involved,” Dr. Ebojele emphasized. “No one is above the law. Those who escaped arrest have been declared wanted.”
In a related development, the Special Security Squad also sealed off a residence in the Upper Uwa area of Benin City, identified as the last known address of Etiosa Akhiombare Joshua, also known as Baba Josh. Joshua is suspected of being a member of the Maphite Confraternity and is believed to be the mastermind and financier behind last week’s killing on Wire Road.
These actions signal a significant escalation in the Edo State Government’s efforts to eradicate cultism and related criminal activities, sending a clear message that such behavior will not be tolerated.
