Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has accused the African Democratic Congress (ADC) of promoting cultism and criminal activities in the state, as his administration intensifies its crackdown on violent confraternities.
Addressing journalists in Benin City on Monday, the governor alleged that reports available to him linked the party to rising cult-related unrest.
“Reports coming to me indicate that the ADC is promoting cultism in Edo State. I want to let you know that Akpakomiza might be small, but his caterpillars are not small,” he said, in what appeared to be a warning to groups allegedly fomenting instability.
The remarks were made during the demolition of a building in the Amagba area of Benin City said to be connected to suspected cultists, as well as the arrest of individuals linked to recent killings. The actions form part of the state government’s ongoing anti-cultism campaign aimed at restoring public safety.
Okpebholo reiterated his administration’s zero-tolerance stance on violence and any form of political sponsorship of criminal activity.
“As your governor, I will not allow criminal elements, no matter how they are disguised, to endanger the safety of our people,” he stated.
Observers note that Edo State has witnessed renewed cult-related clashes in recent months, resulting in fatalities and disruption to social and economic activities. The state government says it has strengthened intelligence-led operations and deployed a special security task force to dismantle criminal networks and enforce existing anti-cultism laws.
