Security operatives, working in close collaboration with the management of Prince Abubakar Audu University, have arrested a student suspected to be involved in cult-related activities, including attempted forced initiation, physical assault, and threats to life of a fellow student.
Suspect Details and Arrest
The suspect, Mr. Adejo Elisha Ojonimi, a 25-year-old 400-Level student of the Department of Economics with Matriculation Number 23EC1103, was apprehended on Friday, 19th June 2026, by members of the Vigilante Service. The arrest followed a complaint lodged by a spill-over student in the Department of Food Science and Technology.
The Public Relations Officer of the institution, Uredo Omale, disclosed this in a statement on Monday, June 22, 2026, noting that the arrest was part of the ongoing campaign to rid the university and its environs of cultism and other social vices.
Complainant's Allegations
According to the complainant, Ojonimi, who resides in the NTA area behind the university campus, approached him and demanded that he join a cult group described as the 'Black Axe Confraternity'. The student alleged that upon refusing the demand, he was physically assaulted, injured, and further threatened with severe consequences by the suspect if he continued to refuse initiation.
The complainant stated that the persistent threats compelled him to abandon his residence and remain in hiding for several days out of fear for his safety before eventually reporting the matter to security authorities, who subsequently referred the case to the university's Security Unit.
Investigation and Evidence
Preliminary investigation revealed visible physical injuries on the complainant at the time the report was made. During interrogation, the suspect reportedly admitted to certain aspects of the assault and threats. Further investigation and a check of the suspect's mobile phone revealed his conversations with other suspected cult members of a cult group with the slogan 'Egede', known for the Black Axe Confraternity.
Information relating to other individuals allegedly connected to the suspect and the cult group has also been extracted and documented for further security investigation and administrative action. The suspect has since been handed over to the appropriate security agency for further investigation and possible prosecution.
University's Zero-Tolerance Policy
The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Salisu Ogbo Usman, commended the vigilance, professionalism, and cooperation demonstrated by the security operatives and other stakeholders involved in the operation. He reiterated the university's unwavering zero-tolerance policy towards cultism, violence, and all forms of criminal activity within and around the institution.
Professor Usman warned students and other individuals involved in cult-related activities to steer clear of the university, stressing that the institution remains committed to providing a safe, peaceful, and conducive environment for teaching, learning, research, and community service. He also urged members of the university community, especially as the second semester examination begins today, to promptly report suspicious activities or movements that violate the recently released management guidelines on security to the appropriate authorities on campus, assuring them that all reports would be treated with utmost confidentiality and seriousness.
