The Ondo State Police command has issued a stern warning against any plans to mark the so-called July 7 cultism celebration day, declaring that such activities will not be tolerated in any part of the state.
The State Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Williams Lawal, made this known while addressing journalists at the State Police headquarters.
He stressed that all forms of unlawful assembly or cult-related gatherings are strictly prohibited, especially in connection with the 7/7 date, which some cult groups have historically exploited to initiate new members and perpetrate violence. “This command will not condone any cult-related event or gathering under any guise. Residents are hereby warned to steer clear of any activity that threatens public safety or disrupts the peace,” the Police Commissioner stated.
Lawal urged parents, guardians, and community leaders to monitor their children and wards and discourage any association with groups or behaviours capable of disturbing public order before, during, or after the notorious date.
Highlighting strides made by the command under his leadership, CP Lawal disclosed that the integration of advanced surveillance technology, digital tracking systems, and forensic tools has boosted the command’s ability to identify and neutralize criminal elements.
“Through the dismantling of armed robbery gangs and cultist networks, and the recovery of millions of naira worth of stolen property and livestock, we have made notable progress,” he said.
He added that these results were not only a testament to the dedication of law enforcement personnel but also a reflection of the growing role of data-driven tools and modern technology in policing.
“The deployment of intelligent surveillance systems and forensic capabilities has enhanced our operational effectiveness, enabling quicker detection and disruption of criminal networks,” Lawal said.
He called for continued support and collaboration from the public, urging residents to remain vigilant, law-abiding, and to report suspicious activity.
“With the sustained partnership of the community and the ongoing integration of technology in our operations, we are confident in our ability to preserve law and order across Ondo State,” the police boss stated.
In the vein, Oyo State Police command, on Sunday, deployed personnel across the state ahead of the Founders’ Day celebration of the Neo-Black Movement of Africa (Aiye Confraternity), commonly known as the Black Axe Cult.
This was contained in a statement released by the state Police Public Relations Officer, Adewale Osifeso, in Ibadan, the state capital.
Osifeso said, “Our intelligence-led policing and community partnership efforts have yielded vital information suggesting that rival gangs may engage in large-scale retribution and mayhem during this event.
He stressed that the command has conducted multiple sensitisation sessions with key stakeholders, including hoteliers, lounge owners, and operators of studio apartments, as part of its proactive security measures.
The PPRO warned them against making their facilities available for hosting gatherings associated with cult groups known for violent activities.
“Our intelligence suggests that the movement may use the occasion to execute plans that could lead to serious public disorder, including reprisals against rival cult groups,” he added.
Osifeso, therefore, called on parents, guardians, community leaders, and influential figures to collaborate with law enforcement in mitigating these risks.
“It is crucial to engage our youth in conversations about the dangers of cultism and the severe consequences of participating in violent or unlawful gatherings,” he advised.