The Nigerian Police Force has issued a stern warning to the public about a planned nationwide mass initiation into secret cults, particularly the Neo-Black Movement (NBM) also known as Aiye or Black Axe. The event, code-named AIYE Day or 7/7, is scheduled for July 7, 2024, and is expected to take place in all states of the federation, especially in higher institutions of learning.
“The Command is aware of the antecedents of the Neo-Black movement, notorious for killings on campuses, inter-cult clashes and excessive violent conduct among other criminal actions,” said Grace Iringe-Koko, spokesperson for the Rivers State Police Command. “We estimate that the annual AIYE DAY celebration will likely be held in the cult group’s dens and strongholds, especially in tertiary campuses nationwide.”
The police have received intelligence that the cult group intends to use the occasion to initiate new members, and have warned of potential violent crimes, including forced initiation, rape, and armed robbery. “The ceremony may likely avail opportunities for counter-cult activities, inter-cult violence and other associated violent crimes in and around tertiary institutions within Rivers State. Furthermore, it might provide ample opportunity for the forced initiation of innocent victims and other acts such as rape and armed robbery,” Iringe-Koko stated.
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The police have directed all Area Commanders, DPOS, and Tactical team commanders to carry out pre-emptive and response raids in all identified cult hideouts and blackspots, and to ensure that the planned AIYE DAY celebration does not hold within their areas of responsibility.
“The Commissioner of Police, CP Olatunji Rilwan Disu psc, has directed all Area Commanders, DPOS and Tactical team commanders to carry out pre-emptive and response raids in all identified cult hideouts, blackspots and hotels that may be used as meeting points by the cult leaders, to ensure that the planned AIYE DAY celebration does not hold within their AORS, and that suspected cult members are arrested and made to face the law.”
The police have also advised higher institutions of learning to increase security measures and maintain strict supervision to ensure the safety and well-being of all students.
“Higher institutions of learning are advised to increase security measures and maintain strict supervision to ensure the safety and well-being of all students.
Educators and school Administrators should be observant of unusual gatherings or activities among students in their institutions.”
Parents, guardians, community leaders, and religious leaders have been urged to be vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station.
“Parents and guardians should watch keenly over their children and wards during this period and look out for any warning signs in the content of their interaction with friends.
Community leaders are advised to be aware of possible gatherings or unusual activities in their area.
They and local security outfits should synergize and remain vigilant, reporting any suspicious activities at the closest Police Station. Religious leaders should sermonize their congregants on the evil of secret cultism.”
The police have reiterated their commitment to maintaining law and order and protecting lives and property, and have warned that they will deal decisively with any person or group intent on disturbing the peace.
“The Command remains purposeful in carrying out our duty of maintaining law and order whilst protecting lives and property. We will not relent in dealing decisively with any person or group intent on disturbing the peace that we have assiduously worked to achieve.”
