By Abel Johngold Orheruata, MNIPR
The Neo Black Movement (NBM) of Africa, a legally recognized and globally active non-governmental organization, has strongly condemned the recent demolition of its International Secretariat in Amagba, Benin City, Edo State. The structure, located at Oba Ewuare II Cultural Centre, 7 Arena Way, was brought down on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, under the directive of Governor Monday Okpebholo.
In a statement jointly signed by the organization’s National President, Olorogun Ese Kakor, and Secretary, Chief Kelvin Agbroko, the NBM described the demolition as an unlawful and unconstitutional act, carried out without prior notice, and in clear violation of the Nigerian Constitution.
According to the statement, the demolition was allegedly executed under Section 7 of the Secret Cult and Similar Activities (Prohibition) Law, 2025 — a provision the NBM argues is inconsistent with sections 36, 40, 42, 43, and 44 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended). “The provision relied upon by the Edo State Government is null and void to the extent of its inconsistency with the constitution,” the statement emphasized.
The NBM’s International Secretariat, completed in 2022, was a multimillion-naira facility housing a 2,000-seat event center, 20-room accommodation block, fully furnished offices, a skills acquisition center, and other amenities. The center served both administrative and humanitarian purposes, including empowering over 300 youths annually and employing more than 100 staff.
Despite its apolitical stance, the NBM expressed concern that the demolition may have been politically motivated, targeting members of the organization affiliated with opposition parties. “We note with dismay that even some political opponents of the Governor have had their properties marked for demolition,” the statement said.
The NBM highlighted its numerous contributions to society, including recent donations to 12 government-recommended schools in Edo State, as well as humanitarian interventions during natural disasters across Nigeria. These include relief packages worth over N150 million distributed in 2023 flood-hit states and donations to victims of the Owo church attack and the Okuama IDP camp.
Reiterating its law-abiding nature, the organization disassociated itself from any alleged criminal affiliations. “NBM of Africa is not Black Axe and should not be mistaken for such. We are not a cult group but a Pan-African organization focused on promoting African unity, culture, and humanitarian development,” the group affirmed.
The organization confirmed it has taken legal action, filing a fundamental human rights case against the Edo State Government at the Federal High Court in Benin.
“We remain committed to justice, peace, and development. This act of demolition is not only a violation of our rights but an affront to the rule of law,” the statement concluded.
