Police in Anambra State has said that it will not allow any illegal gathering in the state.

This is coming as there have been reports that July 7 every year is used for the recruitment of new members in the Neo-Black Movement of Africa, a secret cult.

In a press release by the state police command, which was signed and distributed to journalists by the spokesperson of the command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, he said that the command had deployed operatives to various parts of the state.

“The Commissioner of Police Anambra State, CP Ikioye Orutugu has ordered a clampdown on any unlawful gathering in the State.

“This follows the security intelligence-led policing and community information that suggests that the Neo-Black Movement of Africa may use today 7th of July 2025 to execute plans that could lead to serious public disorder, including cult initiations and reprisals against rival cult groups in the State,” he stated.

He said a squad in the command, Schools Protection Squad (SPS) designed to protect schools, students, and institutional infrastructure had been deployed to all parts of the state.

He also urged hoteliers, lounge owners, and operators of studio apartments, to refuse their facilities for hosting any gatherings associated with cult groups or any related activities.

Ikenga said: “The CP noted that these criminal activities happen within student-populated areas, and stepped up the security deployment with the School Protection Squad directing the Operatives of the Command to be on the offensive.

“The Security deployment also involves covert operations with operatives at the Motor/Keke parks and identified spots to nip in the bud any untoward situation.

“Given the above, the Command urges the public to remain vigilant and to immediately report any suspicious activities, gatherings, or threats to the Police as the Command remains dedicated to a peaceful and secure environment for everyone in the State.”

Burial plans have been announced for late Evangelist Mrs Rosemary Oromoni, the mother of Sylvester Oromoni Jr, the Dowen College student who died under controversial circumstances in 2021 after he was allegedly bullied by fellow students.

Mrs Oromoni died in November 2024, three years after her son’s tragic death. Reports say she battled depression and high blood pressure following the loss of her son and the long legal fight that followed.

Her son, Sylvester, became the centre of national attention after his death in November 2021. His family claimed he was beaten and forced to drink a toxic substance by seniors at Dowen College, Lagos. The school denied the claims, saying he got injured while playing football.

The case dragged for years with multiple autopsies giving conflicting reports. While an earlier autopsy suggested chemical poisoning, a Lagos coroner later ruled that Sylvester died of natural causes from sepsis. The students accused were eventually cleared, and no one was held responsible.

The Oromoni family, unhappy with the outcome, refused to bury their son for over two years. He was eventually laid to rest in Warri in January 2024. Just months later, his mother passed away.

The Ogun State Police Command has vowed to crack down on any illegal gatherings or processions that are organised in connection with the “777” cult anniversary celebration across the state.