Edo Government Destroys Buildings Linked to Ritualist and Cultists

The Edo State Government has brought down buildings said to be used for rituals and cult activities. This followed the arrest of two suspects in the government's latest effort to fight crime in the state.

The demolition happened on Wednesday. It involved the Edo State Special Security Squad, the police, and other security agencies.

A bungalow and four boys’ quarters in Uwalor-Oke, located in Uromi, Esan Central Senatorial District, were destroyed. These buildings were linked to a suspected ritualist named Ebhata Eromosele. Another structure tied to cult activities in Ewatto was also taken down.

Authorities claim Eromosele was involved in attacks on three young women. Sadly, one of them reportedly died. Another victim was hospitalized but has since been discharged. The third woman is still getting treatment at a hospital that has not been named.

On Thursday, Amiolemen Idemudia, who coordinates the Edo State Special Security Squad, spoke to journalists. He confirmed the government is serious about eliminating criminal elements in the state.

Idemudia alleged that Eromosele used the bungalow for rituals. During a search, security operatives found a bloodstained bedspread and other items believed to be linked to criminal activities.

"A lifeless body that was killed and dumped was tracked by the Edo State Security Corps to this bungalow used by the suspect.

"A search of the residence exposed the suspect. Security operatives found a bloodstained bedspread and other incriminating evidence indicating that Ebhata was involved in ritual activities and organ harvesting," Idemudia explained.

He also mentioned that Governor Monday Okpebholo has warned that his administration will not tolerate such crimes.

Idemudia pointed out that a building owned by Bright Ejetuwamen, who he said was involved in a cult-related crisis in Ewatto, was also demolished.

"Governor Monday Okpebholo will not spare any hideout or property used to carry out crimes. Such structures will be demolished. The cultist has been caught. All criminals must leave Edo State," he said.

SP Johnson Oyameda (retd.), the Zonal Commander of the Edo State Security Corps, explained that Eromosele's arrest followed over a month of surveillance.

Surveillance increased after two incidents where the body of a mutilated woman was found. The first case was followed by another similar incident less than two weeks later.

Oyameda stated that security operatives were able to track Eromosele to the bungalow after suspecting his involvement in these incidents.

"Ebhata Eromosele murdered a lady and dumped the body, but my men on surveillance saw him and trailed him to this apartment, which was demolished on Wednesday," he said.

He added that three women were attacked in separate incidents. One died, another was hospitalized, and the third has been discharged.

Oyameda confirmed that the two suspects are now in custody of the Edo State Police Command for further investigation and prosecution.