The Rivers State Police Command has heightened security measures in response to the planned nationwide celebration of Founder’s Day by the Neo-Black Movement (NBM), also known as Aiye or Black Axe, scheduled for Sunday, July 7, 2024.
In a statement issued on Friday, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, the command’s spokesperson, emphasized the potential risks associated with the event, known as ‘Aiye Day’ or ‘7/7’.
The celebration is expected to take place across the federation, particularly in higher institutions of learning, with significant concerns about possible violence.
“The Rivers State Police Command has received information about a nationwide celebration of the Neo-Black Movement (NBM) scheduled for July 7, 2024.
The confraternity, also known as Aiye or Black Axe, intends to have this event as a commemoration of their Founder’s Day,” the statement read.
SP Iringe-Koko highlighted the group’s notorious history of campus killings, inter-cult clashes, and violent behavior, warning that the annual celebration could lead to increased cult activities, including forced initiations, rape, and armed robbery.
To preempt and respond to these threats, Commissioner of Police CP Olatunji Rilwan Disu has directed all Area Commanders, DPOs, and Tactical team commanders to conduct raids on known cult hideouts, black spots, and potential meeting venues.
The goal is to prevent the Aiye Day celebration from taking place within their areas of responsibility (AORs) and to arrest suspected cult members.
Area Commanders and DPOs are also instructed to implement visible and effective patrols, closely monitoring higher education campuses and public areas.
Higher institutions are advised to enhance security measures and maintain strict supervision to ensure student safety.
Parents and guardians are urged to be vigilant, monitoring their children and wards for any signs of involvement in cult activities.
Educators and school administrators should be alert to unusual gatherings or activities among students.
Community leaders and local security outfits are encouraged to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to the nearest police station. Religious leaders are also asked to speak against the evils of secret cultism in their sermons.
The police command reiterated its commitment to maintaining law and order, vowing to deal decisively with anyone attempting to disturb the peace.
“We will not relent in dealing decisively with any person or group intent on disturbing the peace that we have assiduously worked to achieve,” SP Iringe-Koko concluded.
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