Edo Anti-Cultism Task Force Arrests Eiye, Vikings Members

The Edo State Special Taskforce on Anti-Cultism on Wednesday said some suspects have been arrested in the renewed violent clash between members of the Eiye and Viking brotherhoods in the state.

DAILY POST reports that State Commissioner for Communications and Guidance, Chris Nehikhare, made this known at a press conference in Benin City on Wednesday.

However, Nehikhare, who is also a member of the task force, warned that there is no breathing space for cultists and cult-related activities in the state.

The Task Force, which also warned cult groups against disturbing the peace of the state, advised them to consider leaving the state or face arrest.

While condemning the killings by suspected cult members in parts of the state. He added that the recent disturbance by suspected cult members on Sunday, October 27, 2024 in Benin City was under investigation and a series of arrests had already been made.

He added that efforts were underway to arrest other key actors and escape suspects.

According to him: “The Edo State Special Task Force on Anti-Cultism expressed concern over the recent disturbances by suspected cultists on Sunday, October 27, 2024 in Benin City.

“The violent clashes between rival cult groups in Benin City have been investigated with a series of arrests, and efforts are underway to arrest other key actors and flee suspects.

“The cult violence resulted in the loss of energetic indigenes of the state.

“Preliminary investigations indicate that the violence involved members of the Eiye and Viking brotherhoods, who are reportedly vying for power in the affected area.

“Upon receiving intelligence of this situation, the Edo State Special Task Force on Anti-Cultism immediately intensified patrols and launched a manhunt for key leaders of the identified groups.

“The task force’s rapid and coordinated response successfully contained the violence, preventing further bloodshed and potential escalation.

“Patrol operations have also been strengthened in identified hotspots to prevent any resurgence of violence,” he said.

The commissioner, who assured the public and residents of Edo of the safety of their lives and properties, promised that there would be no peace until every identified leader and members involved in the dastardly acts are arrested and brought to justice.