Tension in Edo: Governor Okpebholo Orders Demolition of Chief Francis Inegbeniki’s House in Fight Against Cultism
EdoToday reports that there’s been a wave of surprise and concern across Edo State today following news that the home of Chief Francis Inegbeniki has been marked for demolition. Chief Inegbeniki, a well-known chieftain of the PDP and CEO of INE Oil Limited, is one of the most prominent political figures in the state. So, seeing his residence caught up in Governor Monday Okpebholo’s ongoing demolition campaign has left many people asking serious questions.
This isn’t just about buildings — it’s about a governor making a bold and controversial statement in a state long plagued by cult-related violence.
Governor Cracks Down on Cultism and Crime in Edo state
Since assuming office, Governor Okpebholo has made security his top priority — and he’s showing it with action, not just talk. Over the past few weeks, the state government has launched an aggressive operation targeting buildings and properties linked to cultism, kidnapping, and violent criminal activities.
Backed by the newly passed Secret Cult and Similar Activities (Prohibition) Law, the administration now has sweeping powers , including the demolition of any property found to be used for cult-related activities. The law also carries harsh penalties such as life imprisonment and even the death sentence in extreme cases.
One of the most symbolic moves so far was the demolition of the NBM (Neo Black Movement, aka Axe Men) headquarters in Benin City’ a controversial building long suspected to be a nerve center for cult operations in the state. The governor didn’t just order the demolition he supervised it personally, sending a clear message that no one is untouchable.
Now, Chief Inegbeniki’s house has been marked with the same red paint and Edo people are paying attention.
Why Chief Inegbeniki?
That’s the question on many lips.
While the government hasn’t released full details linking the property to any criminal activity, the marking alone suggests there’s an official investigation or suspicion. Given Chief Inegbeniki’s long-standing role in Edo politics as a PDP Chieftain, some people are raising eyebrows asking if this could be political retaliation in disguise.
The state government, however, maintains this is not about party lines. “This is about restoring safety and order in Edo,” a government spokesperson said. “Whether you are PDP, APC, or not even in politics . if there’s evidence that your property is linked to cultism, we will act.”
Mixed Reactions From the Public
Reactions on the ground have been deeply divided.
Some residents applaud the governor’s firmness, especially after years of violent cult clashes that have taken many innocent lives. “He’s doing what others were too scared to do,” one market woman in Benin City said. “We’re tired of losing our youth to this madness.”
But not everyone is buying the official line. “This is a respected elder and businessman,” a PDP supporter said of Chief Inegbeniki. “If they have proof, let them show it. Otherwise, this feels like a political ambush.”
Others are concerned about the potential misuse of the new anti-cult law. Several civil rights groups have warned that while the law is needed, it must not be used as a political tool to silence opposition or settle scores.
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What Happens Next?
For now, the demolition hasn’t happened — but the house is marked to be brought down today 1st May 2025, and tension is rising. Chief Inegbeniki has not made a public statement yet, though people close to him have called the move “shocking” and “unwarranted.”
Governor Okpebholo, however, remains unshaken. “We’re not targeting anyone unfairly. But if your property is tied to crime, we won’t look the other way,” he said during a recent press briefing.
With the recent demolition of the NBM headquarters still fresh in people’s minds, the addition of Chief Inegbeniki’s property to the list is stirring up debates — about justice, politics, and what kind of Edo State we want to live in.
One thing is certain: this is a defining moment for the state. And whatever side you’re on, you can’t ignore what’s happening.
