**Edo State Takes Bold Step Against Cultism: A Building Demolished, Wanted List Issued** In a bid to stem the tide of cult-related violence in Edo State, the state government has embarked on a crackdown on suspected cultists. A building in Amagba, Oredo Local Government Area, linked to two members of the Aye confraternity, has been demolished, while five others have been declared wanted. This move is part of the state government's efforts to implement the anti-cultism law in the state, which aims to make cultism a thing of the past. The demolition exercise was carried out by the Special Security Squad, a task force established by the Edo State Government to tackle cultism and kidnapping in the state. The squad, led by the principal security officer to the governor, has also sealed off a residence in Benin, linked to a suspected member of the Maphite Confraternity, Etiosa Akhiombare Joshua, alias Baba Josh, who is believed to be the mastermind behind last week's killing at Wire Road. Cult-related attacks and killings have been a major security challenge in Edo State in recent times. In 2024, the police rescued 16 out of 29 passengers abducted by gunmen on a highway in the state. The then-Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State announced a ban on the activities of Okaigheles (youth leaders) in Edo South District in June 2024, in a bid to tackle the menace. However, despite the efforts of the governor and his successor, the killings have continued, with the state losing over $1 billion worth of investments annually due to cult-related violence. The Edo State Government has vowed to implement the anti-cultism law to the letter, declaring that no one is above the law. The wanted list of five suspected cultists is a clear indication that the government is determined to take a tough stance against cultism in the state. As the state government continues to crack down on suspected cultists, it remains to be seen whether these efforts will yield the desired results in the fight against cultism in Edo State. In conclusion, the Edo State Government's decision to demolish a building linked to suspected cultists and issue a wanted list is a welcome development in the fight against cultism in the state. It remains to be seen whether this approach will be effective in tackling the cult-related violence