Edo Demolishes Properties Linked to Cultism in Uromi as Government Intensifies Security Crackdown

The Edo State Government has demolished several properties in Uromi, Esan North East Local Government Area, following security raids that uncovered links between the buildings and suspected cult groups operating in the region.

The demolitions follow a coordinated operation carried out by the state’s Special Security Squad, supported by the Nigerian Army, police units, and community vigilante groups. During the sweep, security operatives arrested dozens of suspects and recovered items believed to be connected to cult related activities, prompting the government to take immediate enforcement action.

Officials said the houses targeted for demolition were identified as hideouts, meeting points, or operational bases for cult groups responsible for recent violence and criminal disruptions in Uromi. According to security personnel involved in the operation, incriminating evidence found within the properties made them eligible for removal under the state’s anti cultism enforcement framework.

The government also disclosed that top leaders of the confraternities at the center of recent clashes were earlier given a deadline to surrender. After the expiration of that ultimatum, authorities moved ahead with property level sanctions to reinforce the state’s zero tolerance stance.

Residents in the area watched as excavators moved in to pull down the structures. Some security officials noted that certain cleared sites may later be repurposed for law enforcement use to strengthen surveillance and deter future criminal activity.

The crackdown forms part of a broader push by the state government to curb cultism, kidnapping and gang related violence across Edo. Authorities reiterated that the campaign will continue until the networks fueling insecurity are fully dismantled.

For many communities in Uromi, the latest enforcement action has renewed hope that a firm security presence and clear consequences for criminal activity will help restore peace and stability.