By Nosa Osaro
Five youth leaders, locally known as Okaighele, have gone into hiding following cult-related killings in parts of Benin City, Edo State.
Governor Monday Okpebholo has given them a seven-day ultimatum to surrender to security agencies.
The fleeing leaders — Enas, Koko, Amani Amani, Sparo, and Dada — reportedly escaped before coordinated raids by the Edo State Special Security Squad (ESSC) in the Amagba and Obagie communities.
During the operation, three suspects were arrested and weapons, arms, and fetish items recovered.
Those arrested include Osazee Omoruyi (aka Desmond Tutu), Innocent Okunozee, and Anito Osahon.
Omoruyi admitted belonging to the Aiye confraternity but denied involvement in killings, while Okunozee confirmed membership in Black Axe but claimed non-involvement.
Osahon denied any cult affiliation.
Omoruyi explained that a friend left the bag containing the recovered weapons at his residence and denied participation in violent acts.
Okunozee said fetish items found with him were used for comedy skits, not rituals.
Spokesperson for the ESSC, Eribo Ewanta, urged the remaining five youth leaders to surrender within the seven-day deadline or face arrest.
The ESSC described the operation as a significant step in its mandate to make Edo State crime-free, while investigations into the killings and cult activities continue.
