The Edo Government has warned and begun consultations for legal action against the Neo Black Movement, also known as Black Axe, over spate of killings and cult-related violence in the state.
This is contained in a statement on Monday in Benin, by Fred Itua, the Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to the governor,
Itua explained that government decisions followed public admission by leaders of the group, who opposed the lawful demolition of a building allegedly connected to violent cult-related activities.
He noted that by publicly opposing the demolished structure, the group confirmed their association with criminal acts orchestrated in the building, thereby opening themselves to investigation and prosecution under state laws.
“The demolished building functioned as a hub for planning and execution of violent attacks across Benin and beyond. The government can not allow such structures to exist unchallenged.
“The demolition was a lawful response based on intelligence executed in accordance with the Anti-cultism law passed by the Edo House of Assembly,” he said.
In response to the group’s claim of renovating six schools since Okpebholo’s tenure, Itua said that the government was demanding an official list, documents, and authorisation proof of such schools.
“The group must identify the renovated schools, present documented proof, and provide official approval.
”Failure to comply will attract legal action for defamation and unauthorised infrastructural interference.
“To ensure continued peace, the state government will build a divisional police station on the demolished site to deter crime and enhance security within the affected area.
“More demolitions of cult-related buildings will follow. The administration backed by anti-cultism legislation, remains firm in cleansing the state of criminal cult operations and violent networks,” he added.
The CPS also said that the governor as the Chief Security Officer of the state would not tolerate further killings by cultists.
He added that the governor was fully committed to securing the lives and properties of all residents of the state.
He emphasised that Gov. Monday Okpebholo had no links with any cult group, stressing that the governor was devoted solely to public safety and would dismantle any cult network encountered.
“Edo will never be a haven for cultists. All involved are advised to desist immediately, relocate, or face severe consequences,” he said.
Itua further stressed that the Anti-cultism laws of the state remained active and enforceable, adding that the Okpebholo-led administration would stop at nothing to eliminate all threats to peace, security, and sanctity of human life.
