- Cult Clash: The latest clash is believed to have started when Eiye members attacked Vikings members with knives, leading to retaliatory killings.
- Call for Intervention: Benin United Forum has urged the Oba of Benin to invoke curses on those involved in cult-related killings, similar to his actions against human trafficking.
- Security Concerns: The Network of Civil Society Organisations (NOCSON) attributes the rise in crime to the ban on vigilante groups in the state and calls for the police to investigate and prosecute perpetrators.
- Government Response: The Edo State Government has prohibited the activities of Okaigheles (traditional youth leaders) in the affected areas, citing their alleged involvement in cult killings.
A recent surge in cult violence has resulted in at
least eight deaths in Benin City, Edo State, with some sources estimating the death toll to be over 20. The clashes are reportedly between rival cult groups, Eiye and Vikings confraternities. The violence escalated after a failed peace meeting between leaders of the groups at Tipper Garage in Upper Sokponba Road.
The Edo State Government had previously banned the activities of Okaigheles, citing their alleged involvement in cult killings ¹. However, the Benin Palace disputed this move, arguing that Okaigheles are a traditional part of Benin’s administrative structure and should not be banned.
