How Nigerian Politicians Engage Black Axe for Electoral Advantage

In Nigeria, the intersection of politics and secret cults has long been a pressing concern, particularly during election cycles. Among these groups, the Black Axe, officially known as the Neo-Black Movement of Africa, has drawn attention for its historical roots and alleged involvement in political violence. Founded in the 1970s at the University of Benin as a Pan-African student organization, the group gradually evolved into a confraternity notorious for intimidation, cybercrime, and coercion. Over the decades, investigative reports suggest that some politicians have leveraged the Black Axe to suppress opposition and influence electoral outcomes.

Investigative journalism has revealed alarming patterns linking the Black Axe to political maneuvering. A 2021 BBC Africa Eye investigation documented multiple cases in Edo State where members of the group reportedly harassed opposition candidates, disrupted rallies, and intimidated voters. Victims described threats at their homes and workplaces, with physical attacks occurring when they refused to align with politically favored parties. The investigation analyzed documents suggesting that funds were funneled to the Neo-Black Movement of Africa to "protect votes" during election periods, and former members corroborated that the NBM serves as a cover for the Black Axe's illicit activities.

Reporting by Sahara Reporters highlighted a joint FBI and South African operation that arrested members of the NBM for multi-million-dollar internet fraud, demonstrating the group’s international reach and criminal connections. Further analysis from Chosen Narrative detailed the Black Axe's strategic global operations, including involvement in transnational crimes such as cybercrime, drug trafficking, and human trafficking.

The response of law enforcement to these abuses has often been inadequate, leaving victims exposed and perpetrators emboldened. Police officers frequently fail to act on complaints involving politically linked cult activity, citing fear of retaliation or insufficient evidence. Human rights organizations, including the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA), have criticized this pattern, observing that the lack of effective intervention fosters a culture of impunity. The MFWA stated, “The continued inaction of law enforcement against politically-backed cult groups creates an environment where victims are left vulnerable and democratic processes are undermined.” In multiple documented cases, victims who reported harassment or threats to the police received minimal protection, allowing perpetrators to continue their intimidation campaigns unchecked.

The implications of this nexus between politics and cultism are profound. The use of secretive groups to suppress opposition and the failure of law enforcement to intervene compromise democratic processes and erode public trust. The reported actions of the Black Axe in assisting politicians create a climate of fear that discourages free political participation. Security experts note that spikes in Black Axe activity often coincide with periods of political tension, suggesting a deliberate strategy to manipulate outcomes. Addressing these abuses, including reforming law enforcement practices and disrupting cult influence, is essential to safeguarding electoral integrity and citizen safety.

Real-Life Case Studies: Black Axe's Alleged Role in Edo State Elections

During the 2012 gubernatorial elections in Edo State, investigations revealed that members of the Black Axe were allegedly contracted by political figures to intimidate voters and suppress opposition support. Leaked documents indicated that approximately 35 million naira (about $85,000) was directed to the group to "secure votes" in Benin City. These funds were purportedly used to mobilize cult members who engaged in various forms of voter suppression, including threats and physical intimidation.

One victim, who wished to remain anonymous, recounted how a group of Black Axe members visited his home days before the election, demanding he support a particular candidate. "They told me it was either I vote their way or face consequences," he said. "I was too scared to report it to the police; I didn't think they'd do anything."

In the 2015 Edo State House of Assembly elections, there were reports of Black Axe members being used to disrupt opposition campaigns and intimidate voters. Eyewitnesses claimed that cult members were seen at polling units, making threats and ensuring that voters cast their ballots in favor of specific candidates. Despite numerous complaints, law enforcement agencies reportedly failed to take significant action against the perpetrators.

The 2018 local government elections in Edo State were marred by violence attributed to cult groups, including the Black Axe. Reports indicated that cult members clashed with rival groups, leading to several injuries and deaths. Political analysts suggested that the violence was orchestrated to influence election outcomes and eliminate political opponents. The state's response was criticized for being insufficient and delayed.

During the 2020 gubernatorial elections in Edo State, there were allegations that the Black Axe was involved in voter intimidation and ballot box snatching. Investigations revealed that cult members were allegedly paid to disrupt opposition rallies and ensure voter compliance. The state's government condemned the activities and vowed to take action against those responsible, but critics argued that the measures were largely symbolic and lacked enforcement.

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