Security agencies in Edo have warned suspected cult groups against plans to disrupt upcoming by-elections.
Authorities say credible intelligence shows groups mobilising to trigger violence before, during, and after polls.
The Edo State Special Security Squad (ESSS) has alerted the public to an alleged plan by suspected cult groups to cause unrest during the August 16, 2025 senatorial and House of Representatives by-elections.
According to the agency, credible intelligence indicates that the groups are preparing to stir violence before, during, and after the polls. The ESSS has cautioned those involved, as well as other criminal elements, to drop such plans, stressing that security agencies across the state will be fully mobilized to ensure a peaceful election.
The Coordinator of the ESSS, Ameloemen Noah, gave the warning on Friday during a security operation across Edo Central and Edo North senatorial districts. The exercise targeted cult hideouts and aimed to arrest identified leaders.
“We have credible intelligence that certain cult groups are mobilizing to trigger unrest before, during, and after the polls,” Noah stated. “Our response will be swift. This is not about politics; it is about protecting the people of Edo State. Parents and guardians must caution their children not to be used by these criminal elements, because anyone caught will face the full weight of the law.”
In Edo Central, the team carried out operations at key locations, including Ojuromi Modern Market in Uromi, as well as in Ekpoma, Irrua, and nearby communities. In Edo North, security personnel patrolled areas such as Warake, Iyeki Road, Angle 90, and the Auchi Polytechnic campus.
Noah reaffirmed the squad’s determination to protect the electoral process, warning that no group would be allowed to intimidate voters or disrupt public order.
