Edo Government Demolishes Suspected Ritualists’ Building, Seals Another in Uromi

The Edo State Government has intensified its campaign against cultism, kidnapping and other violent crimes with the demolition of a building allegedly linked to cult and ritual activities and the sealing of another property in Uromi, Esan North-East Local Government Area.

The operation was carried out under the state government's ongoing "Operation Flush Out Kidnappers and Cultists," involving personnel of the Edo State Security Corps (ESSC), the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies acting on the directive of Governor Monday Okpebholo.

Speaking during the exercise, the Secretary of the Edo State Security Squad, Barrister John Izegaegbe, said the action followed intelligence reports and investigations conducted by security agencies into suspected criminal activities within the area.

According to him, one of the affected properties, located in Ebhoijie-Uromi, came under investigation after the decomposing body of a gateman, identified as Mildah Dalandi, was discovered inside an apartment on June 2, 2026.

Izegaegbe explained that residents had alerted authorities after perceiving a persistent foul odour coming from the premises. Security operatives subsequently visited the location and discovered the body.

Medical experts who examined the remains reportedly concluded that the deceased had been dead for approximately one month before the discovery.

The security squad secretary identified two individuals, Eweh Favour and Eweh Bright, as persons of interest in the ongoing investigation. He disclosed that both suspects are currently at large and urged them to report to either the Uromi Police Divisional Headquarters or the Area Command within 72 hours to assist investigators.

As investigations progressed, security operatives demolished a bungalow located on Dr. Ebason Street in Uromi, which authorities alleged belonged to the same suspects.

Izegaegbe said intelligence gathered during the investigation indicated that the property was allegedly being used as an initiation centre for members of a cult group operating in the area.

Security personnel who searched the premises reportedly recovered several items, including laptops, machetes, battle axes, native pots, candles, identity documents and photographs.

Authorities also recovered a red-coloured liquid suspected to be associated with ritual practices, as well as a photograph allegedly bearing the inscription, "Singapore ritualist."

While displaying some of the recovered items, Izegaegbe said the state government would continue to take decisive action against individuals and groups involved in activities that threaten public safety and security.

He noted that the demolition was intended to serve as a strong warning to criminal elements operating within Edo State and reaffirmed the government's determination to dismantle criminal networks across communities.

"The state government will not allow cultism, kidnapping, ritual-related crimes or any form of criminal activity to take root in our communities. Anyone found engaging in activities capable of endangering lives and property will face the full weight of the law," he said.

The Edo State Government reiterated its commitment to protecting residents and maintaining law and order across the state.

Authorities also assured members of the public that investigations into the matter are ongoing and that anyone found culpable would be prosecuted in accordance with the law.

Residents were urged to remain vigilant and continue providing useful information to security agencies to support efforts aimed at combating crime and improving security across the state.