ESEWEZIE HOLDS EMERGENCY SECURITY MEETING FOLLOWING RECENT CULT-RELATED VIOLENCE, DECLARES 2 PERSONS “WANTED”, IMPOSES TEMPORARY CURFEW

28th May 2025

COMMUNIQUE
Issued at the Conclusion of the emergency Security Meeting on the Security Situation in Ibusa Community held on the 28th of May 2025 at the Oshimili North Local Government Liaison office, Ibusa.

A high-level security meeting convened at the instance of the Executive Chairman of Oshimili North Local Government Area held on 28th May 2025. The meeting involved the Ibusa Interim Youth Executive, Heads of all security agencies present in the community (Army, Police, DSS, Vigilante Commanders), and critical stakeholders of Ibusa community.

The meeting was convened in response to the growing insecurity in the community, particularly the alarming activities of cult groups that have led to violence, loss of lives, and general unrest.

After extensive deliberations, the following resolutions were unanimously adopted:

1. Imposition of Curfew:
   A seven-day curfew is hereby imposed in Ibusa, effective from tomorrow, 29th May 2025. The curfew shall be observed daily from 8:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
2. Restriction on Release of Cult Suspects:
   No suspected cultist shall be released arbitrarily. Any release must have the joint consent of the Traditional Ruler, the Council Chairman, and the Ibusa Youth Executive after due legal procedures.
3. Ban on Cultism-Related Funeral Processions:
   a. Processions for individuals who died as a result of cult-related activities are strictly prohibited.
   b. All burial processions of any kind must receive prior approval from the Traditional Ruler.
4. Prosecution of Cultists:
   Anyone found culpable of cult-related activities shall be prosecuted and charged in accordance with the law.
5. Expulsion of Non-Indigene involved in cult activities:
   Any non-indigene residing in Ibusa found to be involved in cultism shall be expelled from the community with immediate effect.
6. Regulations for Beer Parlours and Bars:
   All beer parlours and bars within the community must install CCTV surveillance systems. In the event of any incident, operators must either provide relevant footage or an eyewitness account. Failure to comply may result in the closure of the premises.
7. Second-Time Offenders:
   Any indigene found to be a repeat offender in nefarious or criminal activities shall be sent out from the community.
8. Wanted Persons Declaration:
   The Ibusa community and security Agencies hereby declare the following individuals wanted, Ekenem Obi and Tobe Okonji for their alleged involvement in leading cult war. The public is urged to provide any useful information that may lead to their arrest.
9. Enhanced Surveillance Measures:
   There shall be an increase in the deployment of surveillance drones and installation of additional CCTV cameras throughout the Ibusa community to enhance security monitoring and deterrence.

Signed:
Management