The Edo State Government hereby reaffirms its decision to ban the activities of Okaigheles and Cultist in Edo South communities due to the alarming rise in cult-related activities and the resulting homicides in the region. This decision was made in the interest of public safety and to curb the growing violence that has plagued our communities.
The Edo State Security Council data has shown that these two groups (Okaigheles and cultists) pose the most severe threat to the security and stability of the State, resulting in the decision of the Council to place a total ban on the criminal groups.
While we respect the tradition and customs of our communities, it is important to note that the safety and security of our citizens must always come first. Chief Osaro Idah, Obazalu of Benin’s contradictory statement does not change the gravity of the situation at hand, and we stand by our decision to enforce this ban on Okaigheles to protect the lives of our people.
The state government notes that statements like the one made by Chief Idah, emboldens these criminals to take up arms against ordinary Citizens, Military, Police and other constitutional security agencies.
For example, on Friday, the 7th of June, 2024, some so-called youths opened fire on three men of the Nigerian Army attached to Okomu Oil Palm Plc., in Ovia South West Local Government Area, injuring them and throwing the community into pandemonium.
In the coming weeks, Government will proceed on a full-scale operation to disarm these criminal elements and neutralize their threat against public peace.
Government therefore warns in the strongest terms that it will not allow any individual or organization no matter now highly placed to undermine the efforts of the State Security Council to protect the lives and property of our people.
We reiterate that the activities of cultists, Okaigheles and their sponsors remain banned in the State and we will spare no effort to ensure that those who flout the ban are made to face the full weight of the Law.
Signed
Chris Osa Nehikhare
Hon. Commissioner of Communication and Orientation
