Unmasking Organized Crime in Edo State

BY OBAGBINOKO P. OGHENETEJIRI          

Crime in Nigeria has evolved from isolated acts to a deeply entrenched problem, feeding off poverty, shrinking aid, and the growing pressures of climate change. In places where justice is weak and opportunities are scarce, people are often forced into dangerous alternatives to survive or gain power, and such is the predicament in many parts of the country. Edo State reflects the growing reach of organized crime in everyday life.

Over the years, organized crime in Nigeria has become more sophisticated, violent and interconnected, pervading different states and communities. But just how deeply organized crime has taken root in Edo State, what does this mean for the communities living in its shadow and to what extents have different stakeholders taken to address this festering and ever-growing societal cancer taken hold of Edo State?

Organized Crime Goes Digital

Criminal networks are increasingly exploiting modern tools, technology, social media, and even AI-driven methods to recruit, coordinate, and expand their illicit activities. What was once hidden in the shadows is now amplified by digital platforms, making crimes like human trafficking and fraud faster, harder to track, and more far-reaching than ever before.

Leveraging technology and digital networks, these criminal activities have entrenched Edo State as a central hub for organized crime, with far-reaching consequences for its communities.

In Edo state, organized crime does not exist in a particular order or form. It takes on multiple, deeply rooted forms that often intersect and reinforce one another. Among the most pressing are human trafficking for sexual exploitation, cultism, cybercrime and drug trafficking. These criminal activities are not only harmful in themselves but also contribute to a cycle of violence, and social instability.

Edo Streets in Peril: The Rising Menace of Cultism

Without a doubt, Cultism, has become a nationwide problem, but in Edo State, its impact is nothing short of devastating, prompting Edo State government to enact the anti-cultism law, and despite this move, the organized crime persists. In Benin City, streets have become the stage for violent clashes between rival cult groups, claiming the lives of many youths and leaving families devastated. The human cost is staggering, and the shadow of fear stretches across communities, crippling night life.

Cultism, which originally emerged in Nigerian universities as a peaceful student movement has now devolved into one of the most violent forms of organized crimes in the country responsible for vicious fights, gang wars, and sexual violence; exacerbated by the indulgence in the use of narcotics. 

The lure of getting rich quick, a search for protection, low self-esteem and power are causes of cultism and the bait cultists use to coerce young individuals into joining cult.

In May 2025, it was reported that the Edo State Police Command launched a week-long operation that led to the arrest of 95 suspected cultists and recovered firearms and ammunition. It was noted, however, that the arrests were part of a wider strategy to curb the surge in cult-related killings. These arrests, though necessary, further proves the recurring nature of cultism and its deep roots in local communities.

What has been done?

The Edo state government, in curbing the rate of cultism has enacted a new law (Secret Cult and Similar Activities (Prohibition) Law, 2025), aiming to dismantle secret cults and their networks across the state. The Secret Cult and Similar Activities (Prohibition) Law, 2025, came into force on January 24, 2025, marking a major legislative shift in the fight against criminal fraternities. This new law introduces tougher penalties and accountability mechanisms aimed at rooting out cultism not just from tertiary institutions, but from communities, traditional structures, public offices, and the hospitality industry.

Under this law, cult groups, whether known, emerging, or operating under disguised names, are banned in their entirety. The law also criminalizes any form of sponsorship or support. Those who fund, shelter, or in any way assist cult groups face the same level of punishment as active members. The public sector is not left out. Property owners who allow cult meetings on their premises, knowingly or unknowingly, face a minimum of ten years imprisonment and possible demolition of the property. Many have suggested that these properties be confiscated by government and put into use rather than outright demolition.

Yet, the question remains: “has cult-related violence in Edo State meaningfully declined?”

There is no yes or no to this question. While there are signs of intent and early action under the new law, ongoing problems and limited data make it difficult to claim full success. The law suggests an escalation of efforts (stricter laws, demolition, arrests, implementation) however there are still reports of rising cult-related killings. On one hand, in April 2025, the state assemblyraised concerns over cult-related killings, despite the law. And on the other hand, there are records of the demolition of over ten houses across the state that were being used for kidnapping and cult related activities including residences believed to be places for organ harvesting. 

Yes, the legal framework has been strengthened in Edo state but successful reduction will depend on sustained enforcement, transparency, community engagement and addressing root causes. 

Recognizing this, the African Network for Environment and Economic Justice (ANEEJ) with support from the UK Home office is implementing the Brighter Future project in partnership with TAG International, UK. The Brighter Future is implemented in Oredo and Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Areas of Edo State with the aim to reduce crime, particularly amongst young persons. This initiative was built to also instill resilience against crime in the youths. The project targets vulnerable young people identified by their communities and provides meaningful alternative pathways to those most likely to join OCGs to prevent the growth and proliferation of membership leading to a decline in criminal activity. 

The Brighter Futures Project has recorded significant successes in Bayelsa and Edo States, where ANEEJ has worked with local communities and partners to empower these vulnerable youths, even though a lot still needs to be done. Many beneficiaries have leveraged on this strategy through the establishment of small businesses and securing employment for themselves with the skills acquired. However, this initiative and many alike across the country face a pressing challenge of funding as global aid continues to shrink. There is need to reinforce the work government is doing by strengthening collaboration between civil society organisations for achieving a wider reach and lasting impact. 

The Secret Cult and Similar Activities (Prohibition) Law, 2025, is a significant step towards curbing cultism by the Edo State Government. However, laws are not enough. Sustainable and lasting change requires youth empowerment and giving young people livelihood opportunities and hope. Through the Brighter Futures Project, ANEEJ has shown that mentorship and the provision of the right skills can transform lives. To sustain and expand such initiative, increased funding and partnership is required. Stakeholders and donors should key into programmes like this because investing in young people is the most effective strategy for securing peace and building safer communities.

• Ms. Oghenetejiri Obagbinoko works in the Communications Unit of ANEEJ.