Edo Govt Brings Down Amagba Building Over Cult K!ll!ngs, Declares More Suspects Wanted

According to Ireporter Online, the state recently demolished a building in Amagba allegedly used by suspected cult members, describing the action as part of a broader crackdown on violent groups operating within the state. Officials disclosed that the property was linked to two members of the Aye confraternity who were arrested in connection with a series of cult-related killings, while five other suspects reportedly escaped during the operation and remain at large.

The demolition was carried out by a special security outfit, Operation Flush Out Cultists and Kidnappers in Edo State, under the leadership of the Principal Security Officer to Governor Monday Okpebholo. Addressing journalists at the scene, the squad’s spokesperson, Eribo Enwanta, reiterated the government’s resolve to enforce the anti-cultism law without exception, stressing that no individual would be considered above the law.

He disclosed that several suspects previously declared wanted, including individuals identified as Koko, Enas and Sparol, were still being actively pursued and would be apprehended to answer for alleged atrocities linked to cult violence.

Enwanta also provided an update on three Okiagheles earlier summoned by the squad, confirming that two had presented themselves for profiling, while a seven-day ultimatum issued to the Okiaghele of Obagie, Ken Dada, remained in effect. He warned that failure to honour the invitation upon expiration of the ultimatum could result in further enforcement actions.

In a related development, the security outfit sealed a residence in the Upper Uwa area of Benin City believed to be the last known address of Etiosa Akhiombare Joshua, also known as Baba Josh. He was described as a suspected member of the Maphite Confraternity and the alleged mastermind and financier of a recent killing at Wire Road.

Authorities disclosed that intelligence reports suggested Joshua had relocated to Canada, prompting the state government to involve Interpol in tracking him. Enwanta alleged that Joshua placed a monetary bounty on the victim and provided funds for weapons used in the attack, vowing that all individuals connected to cult-related killings would be brought to justice.

The government further maintained that properties linked to wanted suspects would remain sealed until the individuals involved submit themselves for questioning, underscoring its commitment to restoring order and ending cult violence across Edo State.