Security operatives have arrested a 400-Level student of Prince Abubakar Audu University (PAAU), Anyigba, for alleged attempted forced cult initiation, physical assault and death threats against a fellow student.
This is contained in a statement issued on Monday in Lokoja by Uredo Omale, Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the university.
According to the statement, the suspect, a 25-year-old 400-Level student of the Department of Economics, was apprehended on June 19 by members of the Vigilante Service.
The arrest followed a complaint by a student from the Department of Food Science and Technology.
“The complainant reported that the suspect approached him and demanded that he join the Black Axe Confraternity. When he refused, the suspect assaulted him, inflicted injuries and threatened him with severe consequences if he failed to accept the initiation,” Omale said.
He added that persistent threats forced the complainant to abandon his residence and go into hiding for several days before reporting the matter to security, who referred the case to the university’s Security Unit.
During interrogation, the suspect reportedly admitted to some of the allegations of assault and threats.
A search of his mobile phone revealed conversations with other suspected cult members of a group using the slogan “Egede”, which is linked to the Black Axe Confraternity.
Information regarding other individuals connected to the group has been documented for further investigation.
The suspect has been handed over to the appropriate security agency for further investigation and possible prosecution.
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Salisu Usman, commended the security operatives for their vigilance and professionalism.
He reiterated the university’s zero-tolerance policy towards cultism and violence, and urged students to report any suspicious activities as the second semester examinations begin today. He assured students that all reports would be treated with confidentiality.
