The Ekiti State Police Command has apprehended eight people suspected to be members of a cult group at the Ekiti State University (EKSU) in Ado Ekiti. The arrest was made following a distress call and the subsequent intervention of the Command’s Rapid Response Squad (RRS).
According to Sunday Abutu, the Police Public Relations Officer for the state, the distress call reported that members of the Buccaneer Confraternity Alora Sea Lord secret cult group were engaging in activities that could potentially disrupt the peace on the university campus. In response, the Command swiftly deployed the RRS to the scene, resulting in the arrest of the eight suspected cult members.
The arrested individuals have been identified as Onifade Akinsola (400L Political Science), Olatunde David (400L Computer Science), Omoboyowa Olabode (400L Political Science), Daniel Oluwagbenga (300L Accounting), Adeleke Tolani (300L Sociology), Andrew Ochuko (300L Sociology), Bamiduro Olawale (a carryover student of Political Science), and Adelakun Omoniyi (a 2023 graduate).
During the operation, some of the fleeing gang members reportedly fired gunshots at the Armoured Personnel Carrier (APC) carrying the RRS operatives, resulting in damage to the windshield. However, efforts are currently underway to apprehend the remaining suspects and recover any weapons they may be in possession of.
As part of the evidence collected, the police have recovered two yellow fez caps adorned with the Buccaneer Confraternity Alora Sea Lord secret cult logo. The caps also bear an inscription that reads, “Santa Barbara Love Victory and Perfection.”
This incident follows a tragic event that occurred two weeks ago at Ambrose Alli University in Ekpoma, where two students were killed by suspected cult members outside the university premises. The Edo State Police Command had previously announced the arrest of several individuals believed to be connected to the incident, with investigations still ongoing.
The recent arrest of the eight suspected cult members at EKSU highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement agencies to combat cult-related activities in educational institutions. It serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining a safe and conducive environment for learning, free from the influence of criminal organizations.
The Ekiti State Police Command, in collaboration with university authorities, will continue to work diligently to ensure the safety and security of students and staff on campus. It is crucial for all members of the community to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities. By doing so, we can collectively create an atmosphere that fosters academic excellence and personal growth.
