By Peter Omopo
The Edo State Government has announced plans to initiate legal action against the Neo Black Movement (NBM), popularly known as Black Axe, in response to a wave of cult-related killings and violence across the state.
In a statement issued on Monday by the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo, Fred Itua, the government said it had begun legal consultations to hold the group accountable, following public admissions by individuals identifying as NBM leaders.
The statement noted that these self-proclaimed leaders had openly criticized the recent demolition of a building linked to their operations, effectively confirming their association with the property and the criminal activities allegedly coordinated from it.
“The building in question was not just a regular structure; it was a hub for planning and executing violent attacks across Benin metropolis and other parts of Edo State,” the government stated. “No responsible administration will stand by as such criminal enclaves thrive.”
The demolition, the statement clarified, was based on actionable intelligence and executed in accordance with the state’s Anti-Cultism Law, which was passed by the Edo State House of Assembly.
Responding to NBM’s claim that it had renovated six public schools in the state since Governor Okpebholo assumed office, the government demanded full transparency.
“The group must immediately list the names and locations of the schools, provide evidence of the renovations, and present the official approval granted by the Edo State Government,” the statement added.
The government reiterated its zero-tolerance stance on cultism and affirmed its commitment to restoring safety and order in Edo State.
