Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has approved the creation of a Special Anti-Kidnapping and Anti-Cultism Squad to tackle violent crimes across the state’s 18 local government areas. Codenamed ‘Operation Flush Out Kidnappers and Cultists’, the initiative was launched through the Office of the Principal Security Officer (PSO) and the Chief Security Officer (CSO) to the Governor. It is being implemented in collaboration with the Nigeria Police and other security agencies in response to rising cases of cult-related killings, kidnappings, and extortion, particularly in Benin City, Ekpoma, Auchi, and nearby communities.
A statement by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, described the initiative as a critical response to the growing insecurity, which has disrupted businesses, instilled fear in residents, and discouraged investments and diaspora participation.
“We will not allow criminality to dictate the future of our state. Edo State must be safe again for our children, for investors, and for those in the diaspora who want to come home and contribute,” Okpebholo said.
The task force will include carefully vetted personnel such as repentant cultists, local hunters, and members of community vigilante groups. Tactical squads will be established in each LGA, emphasising local intelligence, rapid response, and grassroots engagement.
To support the operation, vehicles and motorcycles are being deployed for surveillance and patrols. The government referenced a similar civilian anti-cult initiative launched in Ekpoma in 2016, which led to a notable drop in cult-related violence and kidnappings. The new administration hopes replicating such efforts statewide will deliver sustained improvements in security.
Governor Okpebholo reaffirmed his zero-tolerance policy on violent crime and directed the PSO and CSO to ensure full implementation of the operation, stressing that accountability, professionalism, and community engagement must guide its execution.
