The Edo State Government has issued a stern warning to the Neo Black Movement, widely known as Black Axe, threatening legal action over a surge in cult-related killings and violence across the state.

In a statement on Monday, Fred Itua, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo, said the threat of litigation followed the group’s public objection to the recent demolition of a building linked to cult activity.

Itua said the government's action was backed by intelligence and conducted under the state’s Anti-Cultism Law.

“The demolished building functioned as a hub for planning and execution of violent attacks across Benin and beyond. The government cannot allow such structures to exist unchallenged,” Itua stated.

The government interpreted the group’s opposition to the demolition as an implicit admission of involvement in criminal activity. Itua warned that this opens the organisation to potential investigation and prosecution.

In response to Black Axe’s claim that it had renovated six schools since Okpebholo assumed office, the state demanded a full list, supporting documents, and evidence of official approval. Failure to provide these, the government warned, would result in a defamation lawsuit and charges for unauthorised infrastructural interference.

Meanwhile, the government announced plans to build a divisional police station on the demolished site. More demolitions targeting cult-linked structures are expected to follow.

Reiterating the state’s hardline stance, Itua said: “The administration, backed by anti-cultism legislation, remains firm in cleansing the state of criminal cult operations and violent networks.”

He added that Governor Okpebholo has no ties to any cult group and remains fully committed to securing the lives and property of all Edo residents.

“Edo will never be a haven for cultists. All involved are advised to desist immediately, relocate, or face severe consequences,” the statement added.

The state government recently demolished a multi-purpose secretariat complex belonging to the Neo-Black Movement (NBM) of Africa in Benin, which was reportedly valued at N1.2 billion.

The demolition was carried out as part of what the government described as a crackdown on criminal elements in the state.

In response, the NBM condemned the action, calling it vindictive and outrageous. In a statement signed by its Chairman, Dr. Ugochukwu Alozie, the group argued that there had been no allegations or evidence linking the building to any illegal activity.