7 Suspected Cultists Arrested, Detain over Alleged Election Thuggery in Anambra

By Praise Chinecherem

Seven suspected members of the Black Axe Confraternity have been arrested over alleged election thuggery in Njikoka and Anaocha Local Government areas of Anambra state.

State Police Command spokesperson, Tochukwu Ikenga who disclosed this on Sunday said the suspects were arrested during an initiation ceremony in a bush at Obinagu, Abagana, Njikoka Local Government Area.

He said, “In its sustained efforts to curb cult-related violence and ensure a peaceful atmosphere ahead of the November 8, 2025 Governorship Election, operatives of the Special Anti-Cult Squad (SPACS) Enugu-Ukwu in collaboration with Agunechemba Vigilante Operatives, in the early hours of today October 26, 2025 arrested seven suspected members of the Black Axe Confraternity.

“The suspects were arrested during an initiation ceremony in a bush at Obinagu, Abagana, Njikoka Local Government Area.

“One 25-litre keg containing red liquid substance, Red ritual cloth, 2 (two) wooden drums, Footwear belonging to the suspects and other accomplices were also recovered at the scene.

“The suspects, all males include: Ugorji Emmanuel, 29 years, Ogamba Chinuike Anthony, 22 years, Chibuzor Agudiegu, 25 years, Destiny Okasi, 22 years, Udewulu Nzube, 19 years, Ifeanyi Anikpe, 21 years and Sunday Akuma, 20 years respectively.

“Preliminary information revealed that the initiation activities were part of their evil ceremony and grooming for election thuggery in Njikoka and Anaocha Local Government areas.

“The suspects on sighting the operatives, attempted to flee, but were successfully apprehended after a swift chase.

“Meanwhile, an Investigation is ongoing to identify and arrest fleeing members of the syndicate and to uncover other linked cult cells within the axis.

“The Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu reiterates that the Command will not tolerate activities that threaten peace, especially in the build-up to the Governorship Election.

“He urged parents, community leaders and youth groups to intensify moral guidance and discourage involvement in cultism and political violence.

“He also called on the public to continue providing credible information that can assist in preventing crime and apprehending criminal elements.”