Over 300 Cult Leaders Arrested Since Okpebholo’s Inauguration — Edo Govt •

The Edo State Government has confirmed the arrest of over 300 cult leaders in the last year across the state during raids carried out by the special security squad.

A statement signed by the Coordinator, Edo State Special Security Squad,
Noah Idemudia, on Wednesday, also noted that several buildings belonging to suspected cultists have been demolished, reaffirming Governor Monday Okpebholo’s commitment to getting rid of cultists and Kidnappers in the state.

Earlier this year, Governor Okpebholo signed into law the Secret Cult and Similar Activities (Prohibition) Law, 2025, and the Kidnapping Prohibition (Amendment) Law, 2025.

The laws impose strict penalties, including a mandatory 10-year jail term for anyone who harbors cultists; 21 years for cultists who cause injury or damage property; and the death penalty for kidnappers in cases where victims lose their lives.

The coordinator of the Edo State Special Security Squad, Noah Idemudia, who was speaking on the occasion of the first anniversary of Governor Monday Okpebholo, said the establishment of the Special Security Squad is aimed at flushing out kidnappers and cultists terrorizing the State in a bid to stem the spate of insecurity.

He reiterated the state’s commitment under Governor Okpebholo to creating a secure and law-abiding environment that fosters peace, development, and community well-being.

“Edo State Government has promised hard times for those perpetrating criminal activities across the state. There is no hiding place for them. Edo is no longer a safe haven for crime or criminality.”

In his message to citizens, Idemudia urged vigilance and cooperation, encouraging residents to report suspicious activities to the relevant authorities.

The new operation, titled “Operation Flush Out Kidnappers and Cultists”, is a strategic initiative by the Office of the Principal Security Officer (PSO) to the Governor and coordinated jointly by the PSO and the Chief Security Officer (CSO) at the Government House.

For many years now, Edo State has been faced with security challenges, with kidnappings and cult related killings topping the list of the heinous crimes.

Idemudia said these criminal activities have been prevalent in Benin City, Edo South, Ekpoma, in Edo Central, and Auchi in Edo North.