Gov Okpebholo Gives Cultists Ultimatum to Vacate Edo State ■ Orders Demolition of Building Used for Cult Initiations

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has issued a firm ultimatum to cultists, kidnappers, and other criminal elements to immediately leave the state or face decisive government action.

The warning came after the demolition of a building in Egbaen Community, along Upper Siluko Road in Egor Local Government Area, which had served as a base for cult initiation and ritual practices.

The demolition was carried out by the Edo State Special Security Squad, codenamed Operation Flush Out Cultists and Kidnappers, in collaboration with security agencies and local stakeholders.

According to Idemudia Noah, Coordinator of the Security Squad, the demolished structure was linked to one Marvelous Adetarami, a leader of the Maphite cult group. The bungalow had allegedly been converted into a shrine and meeting point for cult-related activities.

“We sealed off this building days ago after receiving reports of cultism, rituals, and other illegal activities involving Marvelous Adetarami and his gang members,” Idemudia told reporters.

He explained that despite the earlier seal-off, intelligence revealed that the suspects had returned to continue their activities at night, prompting the state’s decision to pull down the structure.

“We got credible information that the suspected cult leader and his members still converged in the sealed bungalow where a disturbing shrine was uncovered,” he added.

Residents of the community, who had reportedly lived in fear for months, welcomed the government’s action with relief. Many described the demolition as a long-awaited step toward restoring peace and security in the area.

“Neighbours and community members are happy to see the building demolished because they had been living in fear due to the activities of the suspects,” Idemudia noted.

He reaffirmed the government’s commitment, under Governor Okpebholo, to ensure a safe, peaceful, and law-abiding environment for Edo residents.

“The Edo State Government has declared hard times for criminals. There will be no hiding place for them. Edo is no longer a safe haven for crime or criminality,” he stressed.

Idemudia disclosed that security agencies have invited the main suspect, Marvelous Adetarami, for questioning, but he has so far failed to appear.

He urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security operatives by reporting suspicious activities in their communities.

“We encourage citizens across Edo to promptly inform security agencies of any such activities. Together, we can build a safer state for everyone,” he concluded.