Edo Govt Declares Suspected Cult Leader Felix Aigbedion Wanted After Fatal Clash

Edo Govt Declares Suspected Cult Leader Felix Aigbedion Wanted After Fatal Clash

BENIN CITY, Edo State — The Edo State Government has declared Felix Aigbedion wanted over his alleged role in a deadly cult clash that claimed one life in Evboyare community, Uhunmwode Local Government Area.

The violence, which erupted on Thursday, August 21, was linked to a confrontation between suspected members of the Maphite confraternity and the Eiye cult group. One person, identified as Festus, was killed in the bloody clash.

Government moves against cult violence

Announcing the development, Idemudia Noah, coordinator of the Edo State special security squad, said intelligence reports identified Aigbedion as a ring leader in the crisis. His residence has since been sealed by security operatives.

Noah’s statement, released through Governor Monday Okpebholo’s Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, noted that operatives recovered two locally-made guns from a poultry house used as an armory. A shrine was also uncovered in an unoccupied building in Egbaen, Egor LGA, linked to another suspect, Marvellous Adetarami.

“The administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo is unwavering in its determination to purge Edo of cult-related violence and criminal syndicates,” Noah said.

Security operatives on high alert

When security forces arrived at the scene, they found the community deserted. Homes, vehicles, and other properties bore marks of destruction from the violent clash.

Authorities vowed to intensify the crackdown on cultists, warning that anyone involved in such activities would face the full weight of the law.

Edo’s war on cultism

Cultism has long posed a major security challenge in Edo State, fueling fear and instability. Governor Okpebholo, who assumed office in September 2024, has repeatedly pledged to confront the menace.

In June, the government launched Project RISE — Resist Initiation, Securing Education — a youth-centered initiative designed to discourage cultism and provide young people with skills and opportunities. The programme, in partnership with the police and DSS, includes workshops on the dangers and legal consequences of cult activities.

Uriesi Aarebamen Alex, coordinator of Project RISE, said the initiative is “a movement to rescue the future of Edo youth,” stressing that cultism has robbed many of their potential.