By Israel Adebiyi

The Edo State Police Command has arrested 95 suspected cultists and seized several firearms in a major crackdown on cultism across Benin City and its environs, as concerns mount over a recent wave of deadly clashes.

According to a statement signed by Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Moses Joel Yamu, the suspects are believed to be members of the Maphite, Eiye, and Aye confraternities—groups widely blamed for violent supremacy battles in the State.

During the week-long operation, police recovered two locally made pistols, one single-barrel shotgun, and 24 live cartridges. Sixty-four of the suspects have already been charged in court and remanded in custody. Investigations are ongoing into the remaining cases.

Commissioner of Police, CP Monday Agbonika, has urged parents and guardians to take greater responsibility for their children’s actions, warning that cultism is a path to ruin.

“Our message is clear—joining a cult is not only illegal, it is dangerous. Young people must resist the lure of these deadly groups,” he said.

Despite the recent arrests, the violence has continued. Last Friday, a man identified as Macavier, a local business owner and close ally of former Chief of Staff to Governor Godwin Obaseki, Dr Osaigbovo Iyoha, was gunned down near the airport gate on the Airport-Oko-Irhirhi Expressway.

Macavier, who ran a carwash in the area, was shot in what many believe to be a cult-related attack. He was also a former engineering student at Ambrose Alli University and a known classmate of Dr Iyoha.

Conflicting reports have emerged regarding the victim’s ties to any cult group. While some suggest he was a former member of the Maphite confraternity, others insist he had no affiliation and may have been an innocent casualty.

As of the time of filing this report, police have yet to formally comment on the killing.