A 400-level student of Prince Abubakar Audu University, Anyigba, Kogi State, has been arrested for allegedly attempting to force a fellow student into a cult group, alongside accusations of assault and threats to life.
The suspect, identified as Adejo Ojonimi, 25, of the Department of Economics, was apprehended on June 19, 2026, by the university’s Vigilante Service in collaboration with the institution’s management following a complaint lodged by a student of the Department of Food Science and Technology.
According to the complaint, the suspect allegedly approached the student and pressured him to join the Black Axe Confraternity.
The victim reportedly declined the invitation, after which he was allegedly assaulted and subjected to repeated threats aimed at compelling him to undergo initiation.
The complainant told investigators that he was forced to abandon his residence and go into hiding for several days out of concern for his safety before eventually reporting the matter to the authorities.
Findings by the university’s Security Unit reportedly revealed visible injuries on the student when the complaint was submitted. Security sources further disclosed that the suspect allegedly admitted to aspects of the assault and threats during questioning.
Investigators also reportedly examined the suspect’s mobile phone and uncovered conversations believed to be linked to suspected cult members.
The exchanges allegedly contained the slogan “Egede,” which security officials associated with the Black Axe Confraternity.
The university said information retrieved from the device, including details of other individuals allegedly connected to the group, had been documented for further security and administrative action.
Authorities confirmed that the suspect has been handed over to the appropriate security agency for further investigation and possible prosecution.
Reacting to the incident, the Vice-Chancellor of the institution, Professor Salisu Ogbo Usman, praised the vigilance of security personnel and stakeholders involved in the operation.
He reiterated the university’s zero-tolerance policy towards cultism, violence and other criminal activities, stressing that the institution remained committed to maintaining a safe and conducive environment for learning, research and community service.
Usman warned students and other individuals involved in cult-related activities to stay away from the university, adding that the management would continue to take decisive action against anyone found violating its regulations.
As the second-semester examinations commence, the Vice-Chancellor urged students and staff members to promptly report suspicious activities and movements that could threaten security on campus.
He assured members of the university community that all reports would be handled with utmost confidentiality and seriousness.