Edo State Cracks Down on Cultists, Over 300 Arrested in One Year

Benin City, Edo State — The Edo State Government has announced the arrest of more than 300 suspected cult leaders in the past year during targeted raids by the Special Security Squad.

A statement on Wednesday by Noah Idemudia, Coordinator of the squad, also revealed that several properties linked to suspected cultists have been demolished, reflecting Governor Monday Okpebholo’s firm stance against criminal activities.

Earlier this year, Governor Okpebholo signed into law the Secret Cult and Similar Activities (Prohibition) Law, 2025, and the Kidnapping Prohibition (Amendment) Law, 2025. The legislations impose stringent penalties, including:

• 10 years in prison for anyone harboring cultists,
• 21 years in prison for cultists who cause injury or property damage, and
• Death penalty for kidnappers in cases where victims are killed.

Speaking on the first anniversary of Governor Okpebholo’s administration, Idemudia stated that the Special Security Squad was established to eliminate kidnappers and cultists terrorizing Edo communities.

“Edo State Government has promised hard times for those perpetrating criminal activities across the state. There is no hiding place for them. Edo is no longer a safe haven for crime or criminality,” he said.

The operation, titled “Operation Flush Out Kidnappers and Cultists”, is coordinated by the Office of the Principal Security Officer (PSO) and the Chief Security Officer (CSO) at the Government House.

Idemudia also urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with authorities by reporting suspicious activities. The security challenges, he noted, have been most pronounced in Benin City, Ekpoma, Auchi, and other parts of Edo State.

Governor Okpebholo’s administration continues to prioritize creating a secure and law-abiding environment to foster peace, development, and community well-being.