Edo State governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has given an ultimatum to cultists, kidnappers and criminal elements to vacate the state immediately or face the full weight of the law.
The declaration followed the demolition of a building in Egbaen community along Upper Siluko Road in Egor local government area, which was allegedly used as a base for cult initiation rites and ritual practices.
The operation executed by the Edo State Special Security Squad, codenamed “Operation Flush Out Cultists and Kidnappers”, was in concert with various security agencies and community stakeholders.
Coordinator of the Security Squad, Idemudia Noah, confirmed that the building was linked to one Marvelous Adetarami, a leader of the Maphite cult group, who had converted the bungalow into a shrine and meeting point for illegal activities.
“We were here some days ago to seal up this building following allegations of cultism, ritual practices and other nefarious activities of a suspected Maphite cult leader, Marvelous Adetarami and other members,” Idemudia told journalists at the scene.
He disclosed that despite the earlier sealing of the premises, intelligence reports confirmed that the suspects resumed their clandestine operations under the cover of darkness. Their continued defiance prompted the government’s decision to demolish the structure.
“We got credible information that the suspected cult leader, Marvellous Adetarami and his members still gathered to have their meetings in this sealed bungalow, where the horrible shrine was discovered,” he revealed.
Residents of the area, who had lived in fear for months, applauded the government’s swift action, expressing relief that a major source of insecurity in the community had finally been neutralised.
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.
Idemudia urged vigilance and cooperation, encouraging residents to report suspicious activities to the relevant authorities.
