Edo Floats New Security Squad To Tackle Kidnapping, Cultism

By Ayodele Oni

Repentant Cultists Are Members

A new special security squad, made up of repentant cultists, local hunters, and community vigilantes, is being put in place by Edo State Government following unending cases of kidnappings and cultism.

The new squad, which will work directly with other security agencies, is put directly under the supervision of the Chief Security Officer, (CSO) and Principal Security Officer, (PSO) to the Governor.

A statement to the effect reads:

“Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has approved the formation of a Special Security Squad to dismantle cultist networks and kidnapping rings terrorizing communities across the state.

“The security initiative, aptly named ‘Operation Flush Out Kidnappers and Cultists,’ will be jointly coordinated by the Principal Security Officer (PSO) and Chief Security Officer (CSO) to the Governor.

“The operation is a strategic response aimed at restoring public confidence and reclaiming areas overrun by criminal elements.”

The Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Fred Itua, in the statement, lamented the longstanding security breakdown, especially in hotspots like Benin City, Ekpoma, Auchi, and surrounding areas, where incidents of daylight kidnappings, cult-related violence, and extortion have become disturbingly common.

The statement further revealed that “the deteriorating security situation has driven investors away, crippled small businesses, and left many residents traumatized.

“Governor Okpebholo has, since taking office, made security reform a cornerstone of his administration.

“One of the Governor’s earliest actions was to launch an amnesty and reintegration programme for repentant cultists, a bold move that saw some former cult members transition into roles in community policing and civic outreach.

“Despite early gains, however, the persistence of hardened criminal gangs has prompted a more aggressive strategy.”

A formal memo dated July 11, 2025, disclosed that the new Special Squad will operate across all 18 Local Government Areas, in collaboration with the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies.

The squad will be composed of carefully vetted personnel, including repentant cultists, local hunters, and community vigilantes — all trained to tackle violent crimes head-on.

“This is not just another security initiative, it’s a zero-tolerance operation designed to rid Edo State of those who have made a career of terror.”