PAAU Arrests Suspected Cultist for Attempted Forced Initiation, Assault, Death Threats
Security operatives working in close collaboration with the management of Prince Abubakar Audu University (PAAU) have arrested a student suspected of involvement in cult-related activities, including attempted forced initiation, physical assault, and threats to the life of a fellow student.
The arrest is part of the University’s ongoing campaign to eliminate cultism and other social vices within the institution and its surrounding communities.
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, June 19, 2026, by members of the Vigilante Service following a complaint lodged by a spill-over student from the Department of Food Science and Technology.
According to the complainant, Mr. Ojonimi, who resides in the NTA area behind the University campus, approached him and demanded that he join a cult group identified as the Black Axe Confraternity.
The complainant alleged that when he refused the demand, he was physically assaulted and injured. He further claimed that the suspect threatened him with serious consequences if he continued to resist initiation into the group.
The student said the repeated threats forced 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. The case was subsequently referred to the University’s Security Unit for further action.
Preliminary investigations revealed visible 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 examination of the suspect’s mobile phone allegedly uncovered conversations with other suspected members of a group known by the slogan “Egede,” which investigators linked to the Black Axe Confraternity.
Security operatives also extracted information relating to other individuals allegedly connected to the suspect and the group. The information has been documented for further investigation and possible administrative action.
The suspect has since been handed over to the appropriate security agency for further investigation and possible prosecution.
The Vice-Chancellor of Prince Abubakar Audu University, 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 on 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 stay away from the University, stressing that the institution remains committed to providing a safe, peaceful, and conducive environment for teaching, learning, research, and community service.
The Vice-Chancellor also urged members of the University community, especially as the second-semester examinations commence, to promptly report suspicious activities or movements that violate the recently released security guidelines.
He assured staff, students, and other stakeholders that all reports would be treated with the utmost confidentiality and seriousness.
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