Building linked to suspected ritualists demolished in Edo

The Edo State Government has demolished a building in Uromi, Esan North-East Local Government Area, which authorities claim is linked to cultism and ritual activities.

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We are here on the order of Governor Monday Okpebholo and, on getting here, we discovered that it is a ritual and murder case.

The demolition, carried out under "Operation Flush Out Kidnappers and Cultists," involved the Edo State Security Corps, the Nigeria Police Force, and other security agencies. This action follows intelligence reports and field findings, including the disturbing discovery of a decomposed body inside the property. Governor Monday Okpebholo's administration has intensified its crackdown on crime and criminal networks across the state.

Barr. John Izegaegbe, Secretary of the Edo State Security Squad, stated that the intervention was prompted by intelligence and field findings. He revealed that the building was connected to a ritual and murder case, where the body of the gatekeeper, Mildah Dalandi, had been decomposing for approximately one month. Security operatives found the body on June 2, 2026, after residents reported a strong odor.

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It was further discovered, according to medical experts, that the body found in the building, which is the body of their gatekeeper, identified as Mildah Dalandi, had been decomposing for about one month in the apartment.

Authorities are currently searching for two suspects, Eweh Favour and Eweh Bright, who are believed to be connected to the property. Izegaegbe issued a 72-hour ultimatum for the suspects to report to the Uromi Police Divisional Headquarters or Area Command. The demolition targeted a bungalow on Dr Ebason Street, allegedly used as an initiation ground for new cult members. Items recovered from the premises included laptops, machetes, native pots, candles, a red liquid suspected to be used for rituals, and photographs, one bearing the inscription "Singapore ritualist."

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The suspects are on the run, but we are giving them 72 hours to report themselves at the Uromi Police Divisional Headquarters or Area Command to clear themselves and enable further investigation into the matter.

The Edo State Government has reiterated its commitment to ongoing investigations and assured residents that efforts to dismantle criminal networks will persist throughout the communities.

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Information brought us here as the property belongs to the same suspects, and evidence has shown that this building is used as an initiation ground for new members into the confraternity.