Governor Okpebholo Demolishes Alleged NBM/Black Axe National Headquarters in Amagba, Benin City

According to the latest news in Edo State today, EdoToday reports that a building allegedly linked to the NBM, also known as Black Axe, has been demolished by the state government.

In a bold move to rid Edo State of criminal elements and restore peace in local communities, Governor Monday Okpebholo has led the demolition of a building allegedly serving as the national headquarters of the Neo-Black Movement (NBM), popularly known as Black Axe, in Amagba, Benin City.

The structure, Located at the end of Arena Street in Amagba, was reportedly used as a central hub for the group’s activities ,  including suspected cult operations, violent initiations, and other coordinated attacks that have led to the loss of innocent lives across the state.

During the operation, Governor Okpebholo did not mince words as he condemned the atrocities linked to the site. “This is no longer just about cultism — it’s a threat to the safety of every Edo citizen. We cannot continue to allow these criminals to operate freely among us. This building has been used to terrorize our communities, and it must go.”

The demolition follows a series of recent clampdowns by the Edo State Government on cultism and criminal activities, especially in and around Benin City. Just last week, another suspected cult hideout in Ogheghe was razed after authorities discovered it had been used for internet fraud, kidnapping, and ritual practices.

Community members gathered at the scene in Amagba expressed both shock and relief. Many had long suspected that something sinister was going on behind the walls of the now-demolished facility but were too afraid to speak out. “We’re just happy that the government has finally taken action. Our children were not safe,” a resident who pleaded anonymity said.

The Governor has reiterated his administration’s zero-tolerance policy toward cultism, vowing to continue demolishing any structure found to be connected to violent gangs. He also revealed that the site will be repurposed for community benefit — with plans underway to construct a security post or police station to deter further criminal activity in the area.

“This land will no longer be a breeding ground for violence,” Governor Okpebholo declared. “We are going to build something meaningful here , something that brings hope, not fear, to this community.”

This decisive action comes on the heels of the newly signed Edo State Cultism and Related Offences Law, which empowers the government to confiscate and demolish properties used to promote cult activities.

The State Government has also confirmed the sealing off of Eterno Hotel in GRA, Benin, suspected of housing members of another cult group linked to recent killings.

As security operations continue, residents are being encouraged to report suspicious activities to local authorities and support the government’s effort to rid Edo of violence.

“Edo must be safe — and it will be,” Governor Okpebholo affirmed.

“In response to the development, a representative of the NBM offered remarks regarding the incident.