…declares four wanted
The Edo State Government has demolished a property linked to an alleged former cult member in a move that has intensified efforts to clamp down on cult-related violence in the state.
The property, reportedly inherited by Usuanlele Osas from his parents, was demolished on February 14, 2026.
Government officials stated the action was carried out under the state’s anti-cultism law, which empowers authorities to demolish buildings associated with cult activities and prosecute suspected members.
Osas, an alleged former member of the Black Axe confraternity, reportedly went into hiding in 2016 following the escalation of a family land dispute in the Obazagbon community.
Authorities allege that the dispute, which began in 2015, led to a broader crisis in the area.
According to reports, community leader Innocent Okunozie briefed the Edo State Government and security agencies on January 15, 2026, accusing Osas of being the chief sponsor of the unrest.
The crisis was further linked to a series of cult-related killings in Edo State starting in December 2015, which resulted in significant loss of life and property.
Osas was later named alongside three others; Edosa Courage, Uyi Amadasun, and Ero Timothy—as key suspects in the alleged cult activities.
Government authorities accused the group of playing significant roles in the violence that affected parts of the state.
Following ongoing investigations, the Edo State Government and the State Police Command have declared all four individuals wanted for their alleged involvement in the 2016 killings.
Security agencies confirmed that the suspects remains at large and have called on members of the public to provide credible information leading to their arrest.
Efforts to reach the accused persons or their relatives for comment were unsuccessful at the time of this report.