
Rivers State Police Command has warned the public of cult – related activities happening across the country on the 7th of July, 2024.
The Spokesperson for the command, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, announced this in a statement in Port Harcourt, on Saturday, July 6, that the Black axe cultists are preparing to mark their Founder’s Day.
According to her, the confraternity plans to initiate innocent ones, and also to engage in clashes with other rival cults on the same day.
“We have received information about the Neo-Black Movement (NBM), also known as Aiye or Black Axe, which plans to hold a nationwide commemoration in honour of their Founder’s Day.
“The event with the code-named Aiye Day or 7/7, is scheduled to be observed in all states of the federation, especially in institutions of higher learning.
“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.’’
Iringe-Koko said that reports hinted that the group is plotting to disturb public and tertiary campuses across the country.
She said: “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 opportunity for the forced initiation of innocent victims, as well as crimes such as rape and armed robbery.”
“Consequently, the Commissioner of Police in Rivers, Olatunji Disu, has directed all Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) and tactical team commanders to conduct pre-emptive and responsive raids.’’
The police image maker emphasised that the pre-emptive measures would target cult hideouts, high-risk areas and hotels that could serve as meeting points for cult leaders.”
She further said; “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.
“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,”