Rivers State Commissioner of Police, Olatunji Disu, has instructed operatives to raid locations occupied by cultists, including hotels, across the state. This directive aims to prevent any events or gatherings that could lead to potential attacks and violence by rival cult groups, particularly on campuses of tertiary institutions.
The police command received information about a planned nationwide celebration of the founder’s day by the notorious cult group Neo-Black Movement, also known as Aye or Black Axe. Grace Iringe-Koko, the Command’s spokesperson, confirmed this in a statement issued in Port Harcourt on Saturday.
Iringe-Koko stated that the event is set to take place in various states, particularly in higher education institutions, and the Neo-Black Movement is infamous for its involvement in campus killings, inter-cult clashes, and other violent activities. The planned celebration could provoke violent attacks and clashes within and around tertiary institutions in Rivers State.
The statement reads, “The Rivers State Police Command has received information about a nationwide celebration of the Neo-Black Movement scheduled for July 7, 2024. The confraternity, also known as Aiye or Black Axe, intends to have this event as a commemoration of their Founder’s Day.
“The event, code-named AIYE Day or 7/7, is meant to be observed in all states of the federation, especially in higher institutions of learning. The Command is aware of the antecedents of the Neo-Black Movement, notorious for killings on campuses, inter-cult clashes, and excessive violent conduct among other criminal actions.
“We estimate that the annual AIYE DAY celebration will likely be held in the cult group’s dens and strongholds, especially in tertiary campuses nationwide. Also, the ceremony may likely avail opportunities for counter-cult activities, inter-cult violence, and other associated violent crimes in and around tertiary institutions within Rivers State. Furthermore, it might provide ample opportunity for the forced initiation of innocent victims and other acts such as rape and armed robbery.”
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To this end, the police spokesperson said all tactical units and divisional heads have been put on high alert to identify such spots, intercept the cultists, and make arrests to prevent any incidents. Commissioner Disu has directed all Area Commanders, DPOs, and Tactical Team Commanders to carry out pre-emptive and responsive raids on identified cult hideouts, blackspots, and hotels that may serve as meeting points for cult leaders.
The directive also includes implementing visible and effective patrol strategies with close monitoring of higher educational institution campuses and public places to intercept and frustrate cult members’ plans. Higher institutions are advised to increase security measures and maintain strict supervision to ensure student safety. Educators and school administrators should remain vigilant for unusual gatherings or activities among students.
Parents and guardians are urged to monitor their children and wards closely during this period and be alert for any warning signs in their interactions with friends. Community leaders should stay aware of possible gatherings or unusual activities in their areas and report any suspicious behavior to the nearest police station. Religious leaders are also encouraged to educate their congregants on the dangers of secret cults.
The police command reiterated its commitment to maintaining law and order and protecting lives and property. “We will not relent in dealing decisively with any person or group intent on disturbing the peace that we have assiduously worked to achieve,” the statement added.
