Edo Police Arrests 21, Docks 13, For Alleged Cultism

By Ayodele Oni

Edo State Police Command has announced the arrest of 21 students of a Public Secondary School, aged between 14 and 17 years, over their suspected involvement in cultism.

The suspects, from Ogioma secondary school, were also accused of attempted violent attack on Osemwende Secondary School, both located along the Benin-Sapele Road corridor.

According to a report by the

Police Public Relations Officer

Edo State Command, “on November 12, 2025, at about 1:45 p.m., operatives attached to the Loveworld Division, led by the Divisional Police Officer, swiftly responded to credible intelligence and promptly mobilized.

“The intelligence revealed that a group of students suspected to be involved in cult-related activities from Ogioma Secondary School had planned to carry out violent acts.

“Thanks to the prompt intervention of the police, the attack was foiled, and 21 students were arrested, while others fled the scene.

“Three knives were recovered from the suspects. Preliminary investigation revealed that the attackers had circulated a threatening voice note boasting of plans to ‘stage a war,’ burn down the school, and harm students and staff.

“The arrested minors have been arraigned before the appropriate juvenile court for prosecution in accordance with existing laws protecting children in conflict with the law.

“Eight of the 21 students were ordered remanded, while 13 were released to their parents/guardians, who are to produce them on November 28, 2025, for the next court sitting.

“The Commissioner of Police, Edo State Command, CP Monday Agbonika, fdc, calls on parents and guardians to pay closer attention to the activities, movements, and associations of their children both within and outside school environments.

“The Command also urges school authorities to strengthen internal discipline, report suspicious behaviour promptly, and collaborate with the police to curb juvenile delinquency and school-based violence.

“The Edo State Police Command remains steadfast in ensuring the safety and protection of all residents, especially within school environments, in line with the Nigeria Police Force Safe Schools Initiative.”