The Oyo State Police Command has deployed scores of its officers across the state ahead of the Founders’ Day celebration of the Neo-Black Movement of Africa (Aiye Confraternity), commonly known as the Black Axe Cult.

The state Police Public Relations Officer, Adewale Osifeso, disclosed this on Sunday in a statement made available to journalists in Ibadan, the state capital.

It would be recalled that the movement celebrates its yearly founder’s day every July 7. This year’s celebration is billed for tomorrow, Monday, July 7, 2025.

“Our intelligence-led policing and community partnership efforts have yielded vital information suggesting that rival gangs may engage in large-scale retribution and mayhem during this event.

To ensure swift response and maintain order, arrangements have been concluded for the deployment of police officers across strategic locations within the state during this period,” the PPRO said.

Osifeso stressed that the command has conducted multiple sensitisation sessions with key stakeholders, including hoteliers, lounge owners, and operators of studio apartments, as part of its proactive security measures.

He warned them against making their facilities available for hosting gatherings associated with cult groups known for violent activities. “Our intelligence suggests that the movement may use the occasion to execute plans that could lead to serious public disorder, including reprisals against rival cult groups,” he added.

Osifeso called on parents, guardians, community leaders, and influential figures to collaborate with law enforcement in mitigating these risks.