The Edo State Government has revealed that more than 300 suspected cult leaders have been arrested across the state in the past year under the ongoing crackdown on criminal activities.

This was disclosed in a statement issued on Wednesday by Noah Idemudia, Coordinator of the Edo State Special Security Squad, who noted that several buildings belonging to arrested cultists have also been demolished as part of the state’s efforts to dismantle criminal networks.

According to Idemudia, the arrests reflect Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration’s commitment to eradicating cultism and kidnapping in Edo State and restoring lasting peace to affected communities.

Tough New Laws Against Cultism and Kidnapping

Earlier this year, Governor Monday Okpebholo signed into law two major pieces of legislation:

• The Secret Cult and Similar Activities (Prohibition) Law, 2025, and

• The Kidnapping Prohibition (Amendment) Law, 2025.

The new laws carry strict penalties aimed at deterring cultism and kidnapping in the state:

• 10 years imprisonment for anyone found harboring cultists.

• 21 years imprisonment for cultists who cause injury or property damage.

• Death penalty for kidnappers where victims lose their lives.

Idemudia explained that these laws give the government and its security units the legal backing to prosecute offenders and ensure that no one, regardless of status, is above the law.

Operation “Flush Out Kidnappers and Cultists”

The ongoing operation, officially titled “Operation Flush Out Kidnappers and Cultists,” is a joint security initiative coordinated by the Office of the Principal Security Officer (PSO) to the Governor, alongside the Chief Security Officer (CSO) at the Government House.

The initiative, Idemudia said, is strategically designed to target hotspots in Benin City, Ekpoma, and Auchi, which have long been plagued by cult clashes and abductions.

“Edo State Government has promised hard times for those perpetrating criminal activities across the state. There is no hiding place for them,” Idemudia stated.
“Edo is no longer a safe haven for crime or criminality.”

A Renewed Commitment to Peace and Safety

Speaking during activities marking Governor Okpebholo’s first anniversary in office, Idemudia highlighted that the creation of the Special Security Squad was one of the administration’s most effective interventions in tackling insecurity.

He said the state government remains focused on building a secure, law-abiding environment that promotes peace, development, and community well-being.

He also urged residents to remain vigilant and to report suspicious activities to security agencies for prompt action.

Security Challenges in Edo

For several years, Edo State has grappled with rising cases of kidnappings, cult-related killings, and other violent crimes, particularly in Benin City, Edo South, Ekpoma (Edo Central), and Auchi (Edo North).

However, with the new laws and security reforms under Governor Okpebholo’s leadership, authorities say the tide is turning.

“We are sending a clear message — anyone involved in cultism, kidnapping, or related crimes will face the full weight of the law,” Idemudia emphasized.