The Rivers State Commissioner of Police, CP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has directed a comprehensive crackdown on suspected cult hideouts and hotspots, in a bid to prevent a planned ‘AIYE DAY’ celebration by cult groups in the state.
The State Police Boss had instructed Area Commanders, DPOs, and Tactical team commanders to conduct pre-emptive raids on identified blackspots, hotels, and higher educational institution campuses to arrest suspected cult members and disrupt their plans.
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The order was contained in a statement by the Command’s Spokesperson, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, noting that the Command had received intelligence about the Neo-Black Movement’s (NBM) plans to celebrate their Founder’s Day on July 7, 2024, codenamed AIYE Day or 7/7.
The event is expected to take place in all states, particularly in higher institutions of learning.
Iringe-Koko noted that the Command is aware of the NBM’s history of violence, including campus killings, inter-cult clashes, excessive brutality, inter-cult clashes and excessive violent conduct among other criminal actions.
She disclosed that it is anticipated that the celebration will be held in cult strongholds, including tertiary campuses, potentially leading to counter-cult activities, inter-cult violence, and other violent crimes in Rivers State.
She said the ceremony may also lead to forced initiations, rape, armed robbery, and other criminal acts, adding that the Police Command is taking proactive measures to prevent any potential violence and ensure the safety of citizens, particularly in tertiary institutions.
Hence, the State Police Commissioner had advised higher institutions to beef up security measures, while educators and school administrators are urged to be vigilant and report any unusual activities among students.
CP Disu, also advised Parents and guardians to monitor their children’s activities closely, also community leaders are encouraged to synergize with local security outfits to report suspicious activities.
Also, Religious leaders have been asked to sermonize against the evils of secret cultism.
However, the police have reiterated their commitment to maintaining law and order, and have vowed to deal decisively with anyone intent on disturbing the peace.
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