Authorities have arrested 21 students from Ogioma Public Secondary School in connection with suspected cult-related activities targeting Osemwende Public Secondary School. The arrests were confirmed by the Edo State Police Command on Saturday, November 15, 2025.
CSP Moses Yamu, spokesperson for the command, said the students, aged between 14 and 17 years, were apprehended following a foiled attack on Osemwende Secondary School, located at Oghoghibi off Benin–Sapele Road. Acting on credible intelligence, officers from the Loveworld Division, led by the Divisional Police Officer, intercepted the students who had arrived at the school on motorcycles intending to carry out violent acts.
Among those arrested are Promise Afekokhian (16), Samuel John (16), Godstime Sunday (15), Basit Kareem (14), Destiny Lucky (15), Miracle Peter (16), Victor Innocent (14), Osazee Efe (16), Usman Adamu (17), and Orodge Miracle (15). Others include Godspower Agharevba (16), Favour Ogunde (16), Clinton Oghenetega (17), Wisdom Ehimen (17), Zenith Jonathan (17), Steven Monday (14), Ogbebor Calistus (17), Marvelous Imadefe (15), Success Ogar (16), Osaro Osama Praise (13), and Miracle Bassey (16), while some suspects managed to escape.
Police recovered four knives and a chain from the suspects. Preliminary investigations revealed that they had circulated a threatening voice note outlining plans to “stage a war,” set the school on fire, and harm students and staffs.
Both school principals have been summoned for questioning, while eight of the 21 suspects have been remanded in custody. The remaining 13 were released to their parents or guardians, who are required to present them in court on November 28, 2025, for further proceedings.
Edo State Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, urged parents and guardians to closely monitor their children’s activities and peer groups. He also called on school authorities to enforce discipline, promptly report suspicious gatherings, and work closely with the police to prevent juvenile delinquency and violence in schools.
The CP reaffirmed the command’s commitment to safeguarding students and residents under the Nigeria Police Force Safe Schools Initiative.