The Rivers State Police Command says that it has received information about a nationwide celebration of a group, the Neo-Black Movement (NBM) scheduled for July 7, 2024.
The command in a press statement issued in Port Harcourt on Saturday by its Public Relations Officer, SP Grace Iringe Koko, said the confraternity, also known as Aiye or Black Axe, planned to have an event to commemorate their Founder’s Day and warned the group to stay out of Port Harcourt.
Koko in the statement noted that “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,” and warned that the command would not fold its hands and watch miscreants disturb the peace of the state.
The statement reads, “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. Also, 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.
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“Consequently, 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.
“Area Commanders, DPOs and tactical team commanders are to emplace visible and effective patrol strategies with close monitoring of all higher educational institution campuses, and public places across their AORS, to intercept cult members and frustrate their purpose.
“Higher institutions of learning should be 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 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.”
She said the command remained purposeful in carrying out its duty of maintaining law and order whilst protecting lives and property.
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