The Neo Black Movement (NBM) of Africa, a renowned Non-Governmental Organization (NGO), has strongly condemned the recent demolition of its International Secretariat located at Oba Ewuare II Cultural Centre 7, Arena Way, Amagba, Benin City, by the Edo State Government under the directive of Governor Monday Okpebholo. The organization described the action as an unlawful and unconstitutional abuse of power.
In a statement jointly signed by the National President, Olorogun Ese Kakor, and the National Secretary, Chief Kelvin Agbroko, NBM of Africa expressed deep concern over what it called a gross violation of its rights, noting that the demolition contravenes several provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, despite the organization’s status as a duly registered legal entity.
The statement highlighted that the Edo State Government relied on Section 7 of the Secret Cult and Similar Activities (Prohibition) Law, 2025, to justify the demolition. However, NBM of Africa argued that this provision is inconsistent with Sections 36, 40, 42, 43, and 44 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), rendering the state’s action legally invalid to the extent of its inconsistency.
Reaffirming its stance, the organization stated: “NBM of Africa is a registered Non-Governmental Organization committed to humanitarian service, the promotion of African culture, and the advancement of Pan-African ideals. Established on 16th October 1977 and officially registered under Part C of CAMA on 24th February 1994 (RC No. 7729), the organization operates over 200 branches across Nigeria and the diaspora.”
The statement described the demolished secretariat as a fully functional facility completed in 2022, featuring a 2,000-capacity event center, a 20-room accommodation wing, administrative offices, a skills acquisition center, and a 250kVA generator to power the complex. The center reportedly employed over 100 individuals and empowered more than 300 persons annually through its training programs.
NBM of Africa noted that it had consistently contributed to the development of Edo State through humanitarian efforts, citing a February 2025 donation of educational materials to 12 schools recommended by the Edo State Government. Despite this, the organization stated that on April 30, 2025, government agents accompanied by armed security personnel stormed the secretariat without prior notice and proceeded to demolish the building and destroy its contents. “This act by the Edo State Government is not only condemnable but also violates fundamental rights enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution,” the statement continued. “We emphasize that the provision of the law relied upon is null and void to the extent that it contradicts the Constitution.”
The organization maintained that it is a lawful body with over three million members, including professionals, civil servants, businesspeople, and political figures, and reiterated that it is neither a cult group nor a criminal entity. “The Neo Black Movement (NBM) of Africa is not synonymous with Black Axe and should not be mistaken as such. We have never operated as or been known by that name. NBM is a legitimate Pan-African organization committed to unity, culture, and humanitarian service.”
The statement also outlined some of NBM’s recent charitable activities, including:
- Distributing palliatives worth N150 million to flood victims across 13 states in 2023.
- Donating N2 million to victims of the Owo church attack in 2022.
- Providing over N20 million in cash and relief items to IDPs in Okuama, Delta State, and flood victims in Maiduguri in 2024.
The organization alleged that the demolition may have been politically motivated, noting that several of its members belong to different political parties, including the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). “We are disturbed by the targeting of properties linked to perceived political opponents of the governor. The demolition of our secretariat, which has coexisted peacefully in the community, raises serious questions about the rule of law and abuse of executive power.”
The organization concluded by stating that it has initiated legal proceedings at the Federal High Court in Benin to challenge the violation of its fundamental rights and to seek redress. “NBM of Africa remains committed to peace, legality, and service. We will pursue justice through all available legal channels to address this grave injustice.”