BENIN: The Edo State Government has deployed a special security squad in key areas of Edo Central and Edo North senatorial districts in a show of force aimed at curbing cultism and other criminal activities.
The exercise, codenamed “Operation Flush Out Kidnappers and Cultists,” is a clear signal of Governor Monday Okpebholo’s commitment to improving security across the state.
Coordinator of the squad, Ameloemen Idemudia Noah said the patrols are a proactive measure to address credible intelligence about criminal elements, particularly cultists, planning to disrupt the upcoming August 16, 2025, senatorial and House of Representatives bye-elections.
Noah emphasized that the security forces will be fully mobilized to ensure a peaceful electoral process.
“This is not about politics. It is about safeguarding Edo people,” he stated.
The security team’s presence was felt in major towns and communities, including Uromi, Ekpoma and Irrua in Edo Central, as well as Warake, Iyeki Road and Auchi in Edo North.
During its visit to Auchi, the squad met with the Chief Security Officer CSO of Auchi Polytechnic.
Noah also addressed a viral social media report of alleged gunfire at the Auchi Polytechnic main gate on August 6, 2025.
He clarified that the squad investigated the claims but found no evidence of any shooting.
Director of Public Relations at Auchi Polytechnic, Dr. (Mrs.) Angela Egele, corroborated his account, stating that the reports were false and that the graduation held that day was peaceful.
Both Noah and Egele stressed their zero-tolerance policy on cultism.
Egele warned that any student found participating in cult-related activities would be expelled, while Noah cautioned parents and guardians to advise their children against being used by criminal groups.
He warned that anyone caught would face the full force of the law.
