Edo State Government, yesterday, read Riot Act to criminals and cultists terrorising residents, including those who attacked soldiers in the state, vowing that efforts to flush out criminals operating under the guise of cult groups and Okaigheles are in top gear.
The Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Chris Nehikhare, disclosed this to newsmen during a visit to wounded soldiers and a police officer shot by suspected cultists in Okomu -Ijaw Community, in Ovia South West Local Council.
While pledging the state government’s support for the wounded military officers receiving treatment at the Military Base Hospital, in Benin City, Edo State, Nehikhare, said that the attack on soldiers by civilians in Okomu Community is not unconnected with the nefarious activities of cultists.
Nehikhare, who said that Governor Godwin Obaseki condemned the attack on military personnel, said that a task force has been set up by the state government, led by the Director of the State Security Services (DSS), to combat cult groups in the state.
He said: “It is not right in any way for the military to be attacked in any community in Edo State. A few weeks ago, we were all aware of what happened in our neighbouring Delta State, where over 20 soldiers were killed by some youths.
“In Edo State, we have a bad case of cultism, and what we also call Okaigheles(Youth Leaders) in Benin and across Edo South Senatorial District.”
