Security operatives at Prince Abubakar Audu University, Anyigba, in collaboration with the institution’s management, have arrested a 400-level student over allegations of attempted forced cult initiation, physical assault, and threats to life.
The university confirmed the development in a statement issued on Monday by its Public Relations Officer, Uredo Omale, noting that the suspect was apprehended by the institution’s vigilante team following a formal complaint.
The arrested student, identified as 25-year-old Adejo Ojonimi of the Department of Economics (Matriculation No. 23EC1103), was picked up on Friday, June 19, 2026.
According to the university, the case began after a spillover student in the Department of Food Science and Technology lodged a complaint alleging intimidation and violent assault linked to a cult-related recruitment attempt.
The complainant, who resides in the NTA area behind the campus, alleged that he was pressured to join a group identified as the “Black Axe Confraternity” and was attacked after refusing.
“I was approached and demanded that I join a group they called the Black Axe Confraternity,” the complainant was quoted as saying.
He further alleged that the refusal led to physical violence and persistent threats.
“After I refused, I was assaulted, injured, and threatened with severe consequences if I did not submit to initiation,” he said.
The student also claimed he was forced into hiding due to fear for his safety before reporting the incident to authorities.
“Out of fear for my safety, I abandoned my residence and remained in hiding for several days before reporting the matter,” he added.
Preliminary investigations by the university’s security unit reportedly confirmed visible injuries on the complainant. The suspect was also said to have admitted to parts of the allegations during interrogation.
The institution further stated that an examination of the suspect’s mobile phone revealed conversations allegedly linking him to other suspected cult members, including references associated with the Black Axe group.
Following the investigation, the suspect was handed over to relevant security agencies for further interrogation and possible prosecution.
Reacting to the development, the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Professor Salisu Usman, praised the swift response of security personnel and reiterated the institution’s firm stance against cultism.
“Let this serve as a strong warning to students and anyone involved in cult-related activities: steer clear of Prince Abubakar Audu University,” he warned.
He added that the university remains committed to maintaining a safe academic environment for learning and research.
“We remain committed to providing a safe, peaceful, and conducive environment for teaching, learning, research, and community service,” the Vice-Chancellor stated.
With examinations underway, the university management also urged students and staff to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities to security authorities.
