Security operatives arrest PAAU student over alleged cult-related activities

Security operatives working in collaboration with the management of Prince Abubakar Audu University (PAAU), Anyigba, have arrested a student over alleged cult-related activities, including attempted forced initiation, physical assault, and death threats against a fellow student.

The suspect, identified as Adejo Elisha Ojonimi, a 25-year-old 400-level Economics student with matriculation number 23EC1103, was arrested on June 19, 2026, following a complaint filed by a spill-over student from the Department of Food Science and Technology.

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According to a statement issued by the university’s Public Relations Officer, Uredo Omale, the complainant alleged that Ojonimi, who resides in the NTA area behind the university campus, approached him and demanded that he join a cult group identified as the Black Axe Confraternity.

The student reportedly refused the demand, after which he was allegedly assaulted, sustained injuries, and was threatened with severe consequences if he failed to submit to initiation.

The complainant further stated that the threats forced him to abandon his residence and remain in hiding for several days out of fear for his safety before reporting the matter to security authorities. The case was subsequently referred to the university’s Security Unit.

The university said preliminary investigations revealed visible physical injuries on the complainant at the time the report was made.

During interrogation, the suspect reportedly admitted to aspects of the assault and threats.

Further checks on the suspect’s mobile phone allegedly uncovered conversations with other suspected members of a cult group associated with the slogan “Egede,” which security operatives linked to the Black Axe Confraternity.

The statement added that information relating to other individuals allegedly connected to the suspect and the cult group had been extracted and documented for further security investigations and possible administrative action.

The suspect has since been handed over to the appropriate security agency for further investigation and possible prosecution.

Vice-Chancellor of the university, Professor Salisu Ogbo Usman, commended the vigilance and professionalism of the security operatives and other stakeholders involved in the operation.

He reiterated the institution’s zero-tolerance policy toward cultism, violence, and all forms of criminal activity within and around the university.

Professor Usman warned students and other individuals involved in cult-related activities to stay away from the institution, stressing that the university remains committed to providing a safe and conducive environment for teaching, learning, research, and community service.

He also urged members of the university community, particularly as the second-semester examinations commence, to promptly report suspicious activities or movements that violate the institution’s security guidelines, assuring them that all reports would be treated with confidentiality and seriousness.