Lawrence Ndubeze, Awka
The Anambra State Police Command has arrested seven suspected cult members allegedly being groomed to disrupt the forthcoming governorship election in the state.
According to a statement by the Command’s spokesperson, Tochukwu Ikenga, the suspects were apprehended by operatives of the Special Anti-Cult Squad (SPACS), Enugu-Ukwu, in collaboration with the Agunechemba Vigilante Operatives.
They were reportedly caught during an initiation ceremony in a bush at Obinagu, Abagana, Njikoka Local Government Area, on October 26, 2025.
Ikenga said preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects, identified as members of the Black Axe Confraternity, were undergoing initiation as part of their preparation for election-related thuggery in Njikoka and Anaocha Local Government Areas.
“The suspects, on sighting the operatives, attempted to flee but were apprehended after a swift chase,” Ikenga stated.
“An investigation is ongoing to track down other fleeing members of the syndicate and uncover linked cult cells within the area.”
Items recovered at the scene include a 25-litre keg containing a red liquid substance, a red ritual cloth, two wooden drums, and footwear belonging to the suspects and their accomplices.
The arrested suspects are: Ugorji Emmanuel (29), Ogamba Chinuike Anthony (22), Chibuzor Agudiegu (25), Destiny Okasi (22), Udewulu Nzube (19), Ifeanyi Anikpe (21), and Sunday Akuma (20).
Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to ensuring peace and order ahead of the election, warning that any group or individual involved in cultism or political violence would face the full weight of the law.
He also urged parents, community leaders, and youth groups to intensify moral guidance and discourage young people from engaging in cult-related activities.
