The Edo State Government has demolished a building in the Amagba community of Benin City allegedly used by suspected cult members linked to recent cult-related killings in the state .
The exercise, carried out on Thursday by the Special Security Squad codenamed “Operation Flush Out Cultists and Kidnappers in Edo State,” led to the arrest of two members of the Aye confraternity, while five others escaped during the operation .
Speaking after the demolition, the squad’s spokesperson, Eribo Enwanta, declared four fleeing suspects—identified as Koko, Enas, Sparol, and others—wanted, vowing that they would be apprehended to face justice .
“The governor has given us a mandate, and we will follow that mandate no matter who is involved. No one is bigger than the law. We have demolished this property,” Enwanta stated .
In a related operation, the Special Security Squad sealed a residence in the Upper Uwa area of Benin City, the last known home of Etiosa Akhiombare Joshua, also known as “Baba Josh,” a suspected Maphite Confraternity member and alleged mastermind of last week’s killing at Wire Road .
Intelligence reports indicate Joshua has relocated to Canada, prompting the state government to involve Interpol to track him and ensure he faces prosecution . All properties linked to the suspect will remain sealed until he presents himself .
The demolition follows Governor Monday Okpebholo’s signing of the Secret Cult and Similar Activities (Prohibition) Law, 2025, which prescribes severe penalties including the death penalty for cult-related killings and 10 years imprisonment plus property demolition for landlords who knowingly harbor cultists .
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