The Police Command in Rivers State has issued a warning to the public about possible cult-related activities on June 7.
The spokesperson for the command, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, shared this information in a statement on Saturday in Port Harcourt.
According to Iringe-Koko, intelligence reports indicate that members of the Black Axe cult are planning to celebrate their Founder’s Day. “We have received information about the Neo-Black Movement, also known as Aiye or Black Axe, which plans to hold a nationwide commemoration in honour of their Founder’s Day,” she said. The event, known as Aiye Day or 7/7, is expected to be observed in all states, particularly in higher learning institutions.
Iringe-Koko warned that the cultists might try to initiate innocent people into their group and could clash with rival cults. “The command is aware of the antecedents of the confraternity, notorious for killings on campuses, inter-cult clashes, and other criminal activities of a violent nature.”
She added that the group might disrupt public peace, especially in their strongholds and on university campuses. “The ceremony could possibly lead to counter-cult activities, inter-cult violence and other associated violent crimes in and around tertiary institutions in Rivers. It might provide ample opportunity for the forced initiation of innocent victims, as well as crimes such as rape and armed robbery.”
To prevent these activities, the Commissioner of Police in Rivers, Olatunji Disu, has ordered Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers, and tactical team commanders to conduct raids. “Police area commanders, DPOs and tactical team commanders are to emplace visible and effective patrol strategies, closely monitoring all tertiary institution campuses and public places to intercept cult members.”
Iringe-Koko emphasized the importance of community cooperation. “Parents and guardians should keep a close eye on their children and wards during this period and watch for warning signs in their interactions with friends. Similarly, community leaders and security outfits are encouraged to report any unusual gatherings in their area, while religious leaders should preach to their congregants on the evil of secret cults.”
The police have also instructed their operatives to prevent the planned event, arrest suspected cultists, and bring them to justice.
