Cultists Foiled in Alleged Abduction Attempt of Daughter of Fleeing Edo Man

BENIN CITY — Suspected cultists have allegedly attempted to abduct the daughter of Marcellus Oshiokpekhai Ekhayeme, the fleeing man who recently renounced membership of the notorious Supreme Vikings Confraternity, in what appears to be a continuation of threats against his family.

The incident, which occurred earlier this week in Afashio Uzairue, Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State, was said to have been thwarted by the prompt intervention of local vigilantes in the community.

Residents disclosed that the young girl was on her way home from school when unidentified men accosted her and attempted to force her into a waiting vehicle. Suspicion was immediately raised by passersby, who alerted members of the local vigilante group.

The suspects reportedly fled the scene upon sighting the approaching security volunteers.

Community sources linked the incident to the ongoing threats against Marcellus Oshiokpekhai Ekhayeme, who had earlier narrated his ordeal of being lured into the Supreme Vikings Confraternity, under the false promise of employment.

As previously reported, Marcellus Oshiokpekhai Ekhayeme claimed he was ambushed by members of the cult on Christmas Eve 2023 after refusing to participate in violent activities against a rival group.

The attack allegedly led to the tragic death of his five-year-old son.

Following his public renunciation of cultism with the assistance of a Catholic priest at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Afashio Uzairue, Marcellus Oshiokpekhai Ekhayeme and his wife reportedly went into hiding due to persistent threats, leaving their daughter in the care of the cleric.

A community vigilante member, who spoke on condition of anonymity, confirmed that swift action prevented what could have escalated into another tragedy.

“We noticed unusual movement around the school area and responded quickly when alerted. The men sped off immediately they saw us approaching,” the source said.

The whereabouts of Marcellus Oshiokpekhai Ekhayeme remain unknown, as he is said to be seeking permanent safety outside his immediate community.

Residents have called on security agencies to intensify surveillance and provide protection for vulnerable families caught in cult-related disputes.

The Edo State Police Command had yet to issue an official statement on the latest development as of press time.

The incident has once again drawn attention to the persistent menace of cult-related violence in parts of the state and the growing concerns over the safety of individuals who attempt to disengage from such groups.