The Anambra State Police Command has arrested seven suspected members of the Black Axe Confraternity who were allegedly being groomed for election-related violence ahead of the November 8, 2025 governorship election in the state.
The suspects were apprehended during an initiation ceremony held in a bush at Obinagu, Abagana, in Njikoka Local Government Area, according to a statement issued on Sunday by the command’s spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga.
Ikenga said the operation was carried out by operatives of the Special Anti-Cult Squad, Enugu-Ukwu, in collaboration with the Agunechemba Vigilante Group, following credible intelligence on the suspects’ activities.
“In our sustained efforts to tackle cult-related crimes and ensure peace ahead of the governorship election, police operatives, in collaboration with local vigilante members, arrested seven suspected cultists during an initiation ceremony at Obinagu, Abagana,” Ikenga said.
He listed items recovered from the scene to include a 25-litre keg containing red liquid, red ritual cloth, two wooden drums, and footwear belonging to the suspects and their accomplices.
The suspects, all males, were identified as Ugorji Emmanuel (29), Ogamba Chinuike Anthony (22), Chibuzor Agudiegu (25), Destiny Okasi (22), Udewulu Nzube (19), Ifeanyi Anikpe (21), and Sunday Akuma (20).
Ikenga explained that preliminary findings indicated the initiation was part of their preparation for political thuggery in Njikoka and Anaocha Local Government Areas.
“The suspects attempted to flee when they sighted the operatives, but they were swiftly apprehended after a brief chase,” he said.
He noted that an investigation is ongoing to track down fleeing members and identify other cult cells operating within the area.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, while commending the officers for the successful operation, reiterated the command’s commitment to maintaining peace and order before, during, and after the election.
“The police will not tolerate any activity that threatens the peace and stability of the state, especially during this election period,” the CP warned.
“We call on parents, community leaders, and youth groups to intensify moral guidance and discourage involvement in cultism or political violence.”
He further urged residents to report suspicious activities to law enforcement agencies to help curb insecurity in their communities.
