A coalition of civil society organisations, COSCO, has accused the Edo State Government of weaponising the recently enacted anti-cultism law to carry out a politically motivated campaign. The group claims Hon. Marcus Onobun, the only PDP member from Edo in the House of Representatives, is the latest target.
In a statement released on Saturday, the coalition, led by Comrade Jude Ubaka, alleged that Onobun’s country home in Iruekpen has been marked for demolition based on unverified accusations that the property harbours cult-related activities.
“This isn’t law enforcement; it’s persecution masquerading as due process,” Ubaka stated. He further accused the Governor of exploiting the anti-cultism law to intimidate opposition figures and eliminate dissenting voices.
COSCO warned that using a security law for political ends undermines the principles of justice and due process. It urged the Governor to allow the courts to assess any allegations, instead of relying on unilateral executive actions.
“If there’s credible evidence against Hon. Onobun or anyone else, let it be tested in court. That’s the essence of democracy,” the statement read.
The coalition noted that Onobun’s case follows similar threats reportedly issued against other PDP stalwarts. These include the proposed demolition of a hotel belonging to Hon. Matthew Iduoriyekemwen and the residence of Chief Francis Inegbeneki, both accused of hosting cult gatherings. COSCO argued that Chief Inegbeneki’s defection to the APC may have been a result of pressure and intimidation.
Highlighting what it called a clear double standard, COSCO cited the recent appointment of Tony “Kabaka” Adun—a self-acknowledged cultist and state youth leader of the Governor’s party—as a revenue consultant for the state government.
“Justice must not be selective,” the group stated. “The Governor cannot claim to be fighting cultism while rewarding individuals with known ties to cult groups. If he is serious about ending cultism, he should begin with his own allies.”
COSCO called on democratic institutions, the media, and the public to hold the Edo State Government accountable and resist what it described as a growing pattern of political repression under the guise of security enforcement.
As of the time of reporting, neither the Edo State Government nor Hon. Marcus Onobun had officially responded.
