Seven Alleged Members of Black Axe Confraternity Arrested During Initiation Ahead of 2025 Anambra Governorship Poll
Police in Anambra State have arrested seven suspected cultists allegedly being prepared for election thuggery ahead of the November 8, 2025, governorship election.
According to the state police command, the suspects—believed to be members of the Black Axe confraternity—were apprehended during an initiation ritual in a bush at Obinagu, Abagana, in Njikoka Local Government Area.
A joint operation between the Special Anti-Cult Squad (SPACS) and Agunechemba Vigilante operatives led to the arrests in the early hours of Saturday, 26 October 2025.
Recovered items include a 25-litre keg containing a red liquid substance, ritual cloth, two wooden drums, and several personal belongings of the suspects.
Why It Matters
The arrests come amid heightened security concerns in Anambra, where cult-related activities often escalate during election periods. Authorities say the crackdown is part of efforts to prevent violence and maintain peace before the governorship poll.
Preliminary police findings revealed that the suspects were being groomed as potential political thugs to disrupt elections in Njikoka and Anaocha local councils.
Police React
Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, reaffirmed the command’s zero tolerance for cultism and political violence.
“The Command will not tolerate activities that threaten peace, especially in the build-up to the Governorship Election,” Orutugu said.
“We urge parents, community leaders, and youth groups to discourage involvement in cultism and political violence. The public should continue to provide credible information to help prevent crime and apprehend offenders.”
Police spokesperson SP Tochukwu Ikenga confirmed that investigations are ongoing to track down other fleeing members and uncover additional cult cells operating in the area.
Community Voices and Security Perspective
Security analysts have praised the swift response, noting that early interventions like this could help reduce pre-election violence, a recurring concern in Nigeria’s electoral cycles.
Community leaders in Njikoka also expressed relief, saying the arrests would send a strong message to groups planning to instigate unrest.
What’s Next
The police say the suspects are in custody and will face prosecution once investigations conclude. Meanwhile, security has been intensified around key flashpoints in Anambra as the election approaches.
The Anambra Police Command continues to urge residents to report suspicious gatherings or movements as part of broader efforts to ensure a peaceful and credible election.
