A coalition of civil society organisations (COSCO) has accused the Edo State Government of weaponising the newly signed anti-cultism law to target opposition politicians, with Hon. Marcus Onobun — the state’s only PDP member in the House of Representatives — emerging as the latest victim.
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COSCO, under the leadership of Comrade Jude Ubaka, claims the law is being selectively enforced to harass political opponents, while known loyalists of the ruling party remain untouched. According to the group, Hon. Onobun’s country home in Iruekpen has been marked for demolition based on what they describe as “baseless and politically motivated allegations” that it is being used as a base for cult activity.
In response to the controversy, Hon. Marcus Onobun issued a strongly worded public statement on Saturday, dismissing the claims as “unfounded and malicious rumours” aimed at tarnishing his reputation and laying the groundwork for political persecution.
“I, Rt. Hon. Marcus Onobun, honorable member representing Esan West, Esan Central, and Igueben Federal Constituency, categorically and unequivocally refute claims of any such association or involvement,” the lawmaker stated.
“These allegations are not only false and baseless but also appear to be politically motivated—attempts to distract from the developmental strides we are making, and to undermine the trust and confidence the good people of Iruekpen and beyond have reposed in me.”
Hon. Onobun also revealed that he had not been in Edo State since April 22, 2025, further calling into question the timing and credibility of the accusations.
“What I can deduce from this allegation is that it is a deliberate attempt to lay a foundation for their wicked and clandestine plan to silence the opposition.”
The lawmaker stressed his lifelong commitment to peace, the rule of law, and youth empowerment, citing his record as former Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly and his efforts to commission a new police station in Iruekpen to enhance community safety.
“I have championed initiatives aimed at empowering our youth through education, skills acquisition, mentorship, and community development, initiatives that are fundamentally at odds with the menace of cultism and social vices.”
“From reliable sources, I am informed that the clash in question arose between two indigenes of Iruekpen at a brothel within the cattle market and not anywhere near my residence.”
Onobun urged the media and general public to verify facts before spreading misinformation capable of inciting panic and causing reputational harm. He warned those behind the allegations to desist from “the politics of character assassination.”
Meanwhile, COSCO’s statement questioned why known loyalists of the Governor’s party, such as Tony “Kabaka” Adun — a self-confessed member of the Black Axe cult and now a government revenue consultant — are being shielded from scrutiny.
“Justice cannot be selective,” Comrade Ubaka said. “If the Governor is sincere about eradicating cultism in Edo State, he must begin by looking within his own ranks. Targeting opposition figures while protecting loyalists makes a mockery of the law.”
COSCO called on democratic institutions, watchdog groups, and the broader public to hold the Edo State Government accountable and ensure that the anti-cultism law is not twisted into a blunt instrument of political repression.
As of press time, the Edo State Government had yet to formally respond to either COSCO’s statement or Hon. Onobun’s public rebuttal.
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