22 suspected cultists arraigned in Edo over violent clashes

About 22 suspected cultists have been arraigned before an Edo State High Court over alleged involvement in cult violence across the state.

The Edo Special Taskforce on Anti-Cultism, comprising various security agencies, conducted raids on suspected cultist hideouts in different parts of the state.

The task force, which approached the Edo State High Court to obtain an ex-parte order for the detention of the suspects pending the completion of investigations, had vowed earlier to eliminate cultist activities disrupting the state’s peace.

During an ex-parte motion, counsel for the Department of State Services (DSS) requested additional time for a thorough investigation.

The 22 suspects, aged between 22 and 35, arrived at court in an unmarked bus.
Presiding Judge Justice A. Erhabor granted a two-week detention order, which will expire on December 2, 2024.

Edo State Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Chris Nehikhare, a member of the state’s Anti-Cultism Special Taskforce, previously stated that there would be “no breathing space” for cultists in Edo State.

The Commissioner expressed concern over the violent clashes between rival cult groups in Benin City, noting a series of arrests made and ongoing efforts to apprehend other key figures and fleeing suspects. He said that the violence has claimed the lives of promising members of the state.

Preliminary investigations, according to the Commissioner, suggest that the recent conflicts involve members of the Eiye and Vikings confraternities, reportedly fighting for dominance in the affected areas.