The Edo State Police Command has arrested no fewer than 14 persons suspected to be involved in cult-related activities following a violent incident in Uromi, Esan North-East Local Government Area of the state. The suspects were arrested after allegedly hijacking a corpse during a burial ceremony and attacking two commercial motorcyclists, popularly known as okada riders.
The incident, which caused panic among residents, happened during what was meant to be a peaceful burial event. According to the police, the suspects attempted to stop the burial by force, leading to a violent clash that left two people seriously injured.
The Edo State Police Command confirmed the arrests in a statement issued on Monday by its spokesperson, CSP Eno Ikoedem. She said police operatives responded quickly to the disturbance, restored calm, and arrested the suspects at the scene.
According to the statement, the suspects attacked the motorcyclists with dangerous weapons, inflicting serious injuries before the police arrived. Items recovered from them included eleven cutlasses, one dagger knife, and one shovel, which are believed to have been used during the attack.
“The Command has recorded a breakthrough in Uromi, where 14 male suspects were arrested following a violent disturbance suspected to be cult-related,” the statement said. “The incident occurred during a burial ceremony when suspected cult members hijacked a corpse and attacked two commercial motorcyclists, inflicting grievous injuries.”
The suspects arrested were identified as Promise Oyido (18), Jude Usidebhosoh (38), Mutairu Alhaji (23), Samson Usidehofo (40), Collins Esaigbe (22), Osemudiamen Iyere (26), Christian Akhare (28), Evidence Osamare (28), Joshua Augustine (25), Kelvin Micheal (21), Goddey Anuka (35), Blessed Ohue (24), Joseph Okhun (27), and Charles Okhare (34).
Police sources said the injured victims were rushed to the Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital, where they are currently receiving treatment. Their condition was described as serious but stable as of the time of filing this report.
While investigations are still ongoing, the police believe the incident is linked to ongoing cult rivalries in the area. Cult-related violence has remained a major security challenge in parts of Edo State, especially during ceremonies such as burials, weddings, and other social gatherings.
In many cases, burials of suspected cult members or individuals linked to rival groups often attract violence, as opposing groups attempt to disrupt the event or assert dominance. Security experts say such attacks are usually planned and carried out with dangerous weapons, posing serious risks to innocent residents.
Residents of Uromi said the incident threw the community into fear, as gunshots and shouts reportedly forced people to flee the burial venue. Some community members praised the police for their swift response, saying the situation could have been worse if security operatives had arrived late.
“This is something we have been worried about for a long time,” a resident, who asked not to be named, said. “Burial ceremonies are no longer safe because of cult clashes. We thank the police for coming on time.”
The Commissioner of Police in Edo State, CP Monday Agbonika, commended the officers involved in the operation. He praised their dedication, professionalism, and cooperation with local security groups in handling the situation.
Agbonika said the command’s use of modern security tools, including drones and improved surveillance methods, has helped improve response time and operational effectiveness across the state.
“The strategic deployment of technology such as drones has further strengthened the command’s operational efficiency,” the commissioner said. “This has enabled us to respond swiftly to incidents and protect lives and property.”
He reassured residents that the police would not relent in their efforts to clamp down on cultism and other forms of criminal activity. According to him, the command will continue aggressive patrols, bush-clearing operations, and intelligence-led policing to keep communities safe.
Edo State has recorded several cult-related arrests in recent months as security agencies intensify efforts to rid the state of violent groups. The state government, in collaboration with the police and other security agencies, has repeatedly warned youths to stay away from cult activities.
Cultism has long been a problem in many parts of southern Nigeria, including Edo State. What started decades ago in tertiary institutions has spread into communities, where rival groups engage in violent clashes over power, territory, and revenge attacks.
These clashes often lead to loss of lives, destruction of property, and disruption of social and economic activities. Innocent residents, including traders and transport workers, are frequently caught in the crossfire.
The police said investigations into the Uromi incident are ongoing and that the suspects will be charged to court once investigations are concluded. The recovered weapons will also be presented as exhibits during prosecution.
The command also called on parents, guardians, and community leaders to play a more active role in guiding youths away from violence and criminal behaviour. According to the police, community support is key to winning the fight against cultism.
In its statement, the command urged members of the public to remain vigilant and provide timely and credible information to security agencies. It noted that early information often helps prevent crimes or allows for quicker intervention.