I Was Deceived Into Joining Cult With Promise That I’ll Be Rich

CYRIACUS IZUEKWE

A 27-year old self-confessed cultist, Chibuike Samuel Ibenye has said that his greatest mistake in life was the day he joined Aiye secret cult with the false assurance that he will make money as a member.
Ibenye said it turned out that the group does not have such means to make him rich as his condition worsened and he ended up carrying loads for traders at market.
Ibenye was paraded by the police after he was arrested with arms such guns, axes, cutlasses, live ammunition loaded in the vehicle for an operation in Isashi area of Lagos.
An Orlu Imo State-born Ibenye revealed that when he realised that he had been deceived by joining the cult, he attempted to leave but was told it was impossible or he will pay the price with his blood.
He said all the hopes to become rich and promises made to him before he was initiated turned out to be fake, instead they sent him for supremacy fight between the rival cults in the area.
He said he had no visible means of livehood as he only squats in Isasi garage carry goods for customers while waiting for when their leader, identified as Fidel, will send them to the battlefield to fight opponents.
He said because of the cult, he had severed relationship with his family and when he ran into this trouble, his father who is a popular auto dealer refused to come for his rescue.
Ibenye, who claimed to be remorseful, said “if by the Grace of God, I was freed, I will change my entire lifestyle and live responsibly because I have learnt my lesson”.
Ibenye was arrested by the police with another member, Lekan Olawori after the police searched their vehicle and saw loads of weapons inside it.

Chibuike with co-suspect, Lekan

They were initially arrested and suspected to be armed robbers but on further interrogation, it was discovered they are members of Aiye cult.
At the police command, where they were paraded, the Commissioner of Police. Mr Fatai Owoseni said they will be charged to court after investigation.