Auchi, Edo State — The Edo State Police Command has commenced a full-scale investigation into the tragic death of a young man during a suspected cult initiation ritual.
This was confirmed in a statement issued in Auchi today by the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Moses Joel, following the arrest of one of the suspects, Cosmos Ado (32), in connection with the incident.
The deceased, identified as Prosper Ezekiel (25) of Afeokpella Community in Okpella, was said to have collapsed during the initiation into the Black Axe cult group held in Warrake forest, Auchi, Etsako West Local Government Area, on Saturday, August 2, 2025.
According to CSP Joel, “Ezekiel slumped during the ritual and was rushed to a medical facility in Jattu, where he was sadly confirmed dead by a medical doctor.”
He revealed that investigators, acting on credible intelligence, visited the initiation site and recovered four expended cartridges believed to be linked to the illegal gathering.
Edo State Commissioner of Police, CP Monday Agbonika, has since directed that a thorough investigation be carried out and ordered the immediate manhunt for the remaining suspects involved in the unlawful assembly.
Reiterating the command’s firm stance on cult-related crimes, CP Agbonika warned that “all individuals found culpable will face the full weight of the law.”
He also called on parents, guardians, religious leaders, and community stakeholders to support efforts to curb youth involvement in dangerous cult-related activities, noting that collective action remains crucial in securing the future of young Nigerians.
By Makinde oyinkansola| August 7, 2025
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