Security operatives have arrested a 400-Level student of Prince Abubakar Audu University (PAAU), Anyigba, for alleged attempted forced cult initiation, physical assault and death threats against a fellow student.

This was disclosed in a statement issued by the university on Monday.

According to the statement, the suspect, a 25-year-old student of the Department of Economics, was apprehended on June 19 by members of the vigilante service.

The arrest, it said, followed a complaint from a student of the Department of Food Science and Technology.

“The complainant reported that the student approached him and demanded that he should join the Black Axe Confraternity. When he refused, the suspect assaulted, injured and threatened him with severe consequences if he failed to accept the initiation,” the statement said.

It said that the complainant said persistent threats forced him to abandon his residence and remain in hiding for several days before reporting the matter to security, who referred the case to the university’s security unit.

The institution said that during interrogation, the suspect reportedly admitted to aspects of the assault and threats.

A search of his mobile phone revealed conversations with other suspected cult members of a group bearing the slogan ‘Egede’, linked to the Black Axe Confraternity.

He said that information on other individuals connected to the group has been documented for further investigation.

The suspect, the university said, has been handed over to the appropriate security agency for further investigation and possible prosecution.

The vice-chancellor, Salisu Usman, commended the security operatives for their vigilance and professionalism. He reiterated the university’s zero-tolerance policy towards cultism and violence.

The vice-chancellor urged students to report suspicious activities as second-semester examinations begin today, assuring them that all reports would be handled confidentially.

(NAN)