The Edo State Government has begun extensive legal consultations as part of efforts to initiate formal legal proceedings against the Neo Black Movement, widely known as Black Axe, in response to a surge in cult-related violence and killings across the state.
This was made known in an official statement issued by Fred Itua, the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo.
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The government’s stance is rooted in recent public declarations by individuals claiming to lead the group, who have admitted their association and criticized the government’s demolition of a property tied to their operations.
The state further emphasized that the group’s public alignment with the property and its use has effectively confirmed its involvement in criminal activities allegedly planned and carried out from the premises, thereby justifying forthcoming legal action.
According to the statement, “The building in question was not just a regular structure; it was a hub for planning and executing violent attacks across Benin metropolis and other parts of Edo State. No responsible government will watch helplessly as criminal enclaves flourish under its watch.”
It stressed that the demolition followed credible intelligence and complied with provisions of the Anti-Cultism Law enacted by the Edo State House of Assembly.
The government also addressed recent statements from the group, which claimed to have refurbished six public schools since Governor Okpebholo took office. In reaction, the government has asked for full disclosure and supporting evidence.
“The group must, without delay, publicly list the names and locations of the schools allegedly renovated, provide documented proof of the said renovations, and present the official letter of approval or partnership granted by the Edo State Government authorizing such actions,” the statement read.” Failure to do so will result in immediate legal action for defamation, misrepresentation, and unauthorized interference in public infrastructure.”
Itua disclosed that the state has plans to build a divisional police station on the land where the recently demolished building once stood, as part of broader efforts to bolster security and discourage future criminal activities.
He continued, “More demolitions of buildings and properties linked to cultists and their criminal networks will follow in the coming days. The Okpebholo-led administration, relying on the existing anti-cultism legislation, remains unwavering in its resolve to sanitize Edo State of all forms of cultism.
“Governor Okpebholo, as the state’s Chief Security Officer, remains fully committed to tackling cultism and safeguarding the lives and property of all citizens.
“As the Chief Security Officer of the state, Governor Okpebholo will not sit back and watch innocent citizens killed by criminal gangs hiding under the guise of cult groups. It is the governor’s sworn responsibility to protect lives and property, and he is committed to executing that mandate decisively.”
The statement also reaffirmed the Governor’s complete disassociation from any cult organization.
“For the avoidance of doubt, Governor Okpebholo has no affiliation—past, present, or future—with any cult group or clandestine organization. He remains neutral and committed solely to the welfare and safety of the people of Edo State. Any such group found operating within the state will be dismantled, and its members will be arrested and prosecuted without hesitation.”
It concluded with a firm warning to individuals engaged in cult activities. “Let it be made unequivocally clear: Edo State is not, and will never be, a safe haven for cultists. Anyone involved in cult-related activities is advised to cease and desist or relocate elsewhere. As long as Senator Monday Okpebholo remains the Executive Governor, Edo will be a hostile ground for cultism and all its manifestations.
“The anti-cultism law remains in full effect and will continue to be enforced. The Okpebholo administration will stop at nothing to rid Edo State of those who threaten peace, security, and the sanctity of human life.”
