By Inope Ofuenyi
The Edo State Government has issued a strong warning and commenced necessary legal consultations towards taking legal actions against the Neo Black Movement, also known as Black Axe, over the recent spate of killings and cult-related violence in the State.
According to a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Mr. Fred Itua, the decision is premised on public admission by self-acclaimed leaders of the group, who have openly identified themselves and condemned the lawful demolition of a building linked to their activities.
The statement noted that by publicly aligning themselves with the structure and its usage, they have confirmed their association with the actions coordinated from the premises, thus paving the way for lawful prosecution.
The CPS explained that “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.
“The demolition of that property was a direct response to actionable intelligence, and it was carried out in line with the provisions of the Anti-cultism Law duly passed by the Edo State House of Assembly.”
In response to recent claims by the Neo Black Movement, that they have renovated six public schools in Edo State since Senator Monday Okpebholo assumed office as Governor, the Government demanded a full disclosure of such renovations.
“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. Failure to do so will result in immediate legal action for defamation, misrepresentation, and unauthorized interference in public infrastructure.”
To further entrench law and order, the State Government will soon commence the development of a divisional police station on the parcel of land where the demolished cult-linked structure once stood. This permanent security presence will serve as a deterrent and protect law-abiding citizens and residents in the area.
“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” it added.
Meanwhile, The Deputy Governor of Edo State, Dennis Idahosa has denied any involvement or association with any Cult Group or Groups within or outside the state.In a statement personally signed by the Deputy Governor, Mr Idahosa described the allegations by one Emmanuel Agbogun as “Spurious, Defamatory, Malicious, Unfounded and Grossly Misleading.”
The Deputy Governor explained that the allegations against him and some other notable Citizens are just “baseless and meant to distract the current administration’s fight against Cultism.”He insisted that no amount of blackmail will distract him from the dedication he has put in, in his public life, and will continue to dedicate the rest of his life to public service and the advancement of the society.
Mr. Idahosa added that he will explore all avenues to take legal actions against the author of the Defamatory statement as he considers it as an attack on his integrity and personality.
