The Edo State Government’s Special Security Squad, known as “Operation Flush Out Kidnappers and Cultists,” conducted an intensive operation across the Edo Central and Edo North Senatorial Districts over the weekend. This effort, dubbed “Operation Show of Force,” was aimed at asserting the government’s presence in the region and reinforcing its stance against crime.
The operation, which was launched by Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration, targets cultism, kidnapping, and other criminal activities that have plagued the state. Coordinated by Ameloemen Idemudia Noah, the squad has made it clear that there will be zero tolerance for criminal elements, particularly those intending to disrupt the upcoming August 16, 2025 Senatorial and House of Representatives by-elections.
In a statement, Noah warned criminal groups planning to destabilize the elections to desist immediately. "We have credible intelligence about cultists mobilizing to cause chaos during the elections. Let it be known that we will respond decisively. This is not about politics—it is about safeguarding the peace and security of Edo citizens," Noah said.
The operation covered key areas in Edo Central, including Ojuromi Modern Market in Uromi, Ekpoma, Irrua, and surrounding communities. In Edo North, the squad focused on Warake, Iyeki Road, Angle 90, and Auchi Polytechnic, where they engaged the institution’s Chief Security Officer to discuss security measures.
Edo Government's Commitment to Electoral Integrity
Noah emphasized that the government would not allow criminals to intimidate voters or disrupt the electoral process. He urged parents and guardians to warn their children and wards against falling prey to cultists and other criminal elements. "Anyone caught engaging in criminal activities will face the full weight of the law," he said.
Auchi Polytechnic’s Peaceful Graduation Debunking False Claims
In response to a viral social media post alleging sporadic gunfire at Auchi Polytechnic on August 6, 2025, the Special Security Squad launched an investigation. After meeting with school authorities, Noah confirmed that no such incident had occurred. "Upon our arrival, we found that the campus atmosphere was peaceful. The police had previously arrested some cultists who were attempting to disrupt students celebrating their graduation," he explained.
Dr. (Mrs.) Angela Egele, the Director of Public Relations at Auchi Polytechnic, also dismissed the viral claims, stating, "There was no shooting at Auchi Polytechnic on August 6, 2025. The graduation ceremony was peaceful with no casualties. The videos circulating online are fabricated and do not reflect the reality on our campus."
Dr. Egele reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to maintaining a campus free of cultism and violence. "We have zero tolerance for cultism, and any student found participating in such activities will face immediate expulsion," she stated. She also commended Governor Okpebholo's proactive security measures and pledged the institution’s ongoing collaboration with the state government to ensure the continued peace and security of Edo State.
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