Police Deploy Officers Across Oyo Ahead of Black Axe Founders’ Day

The Oyo State Police Command has announced the deployment of officers to strategic locations across the state ahead of the annual Founders’ Day celebration of the Neo-Black Movement of Africa, also known as the Aiye Confraternity or Black Axe.

The development was disclosed in a statement issued on Sunday by the state Police Public Relations Officer, Adewale Osifeso, in Ibadan.

The Founders’ Day, which is marked annually on July 7, is scheduled to take place on Monday, July 7, 2025.

According to Osifeso, intelligence reports indicate the possibility of violent clashes involving rival groups during the celebrations, prompting the need for heightened security measures.

“Our intelligence-led policing efforts and collaboration with community members have revealed that there are credible threats of large-scale retribution and violence during this event,” he stated.

To mitigate the risks, the command has concluded arrangements for the deployment of police personnel across key locations to ensure public safety and rapid response where necessary.

Osifeso also noted that the police have held several sensitisation meetings with critical stakeholders, including hotel operators, lounge owners, and managers of short-let apartments, as part of proactive efforts to maintain law and order.

He urged these business operators not to allow their premises to be used for gatherings linked to cult groups or individuals known for violent activities.

“Our intelligence indicates that the movement could use this occasion to orchestrate actions that may trigger public disorder, including attacks on rival groups,” Osifeso added.

The police spokesperson appealed to parents, guardians, community leaders, and other influential individuals to support efforts aimed at preventing violence.

“It is important to engage our young people on the dangers of cultism and the serious legal consequences associated with involvement in unlawful or violent gatherings,” he said.