The Benin Branch of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has raised serious concerns over the mass arrest and arraignment of young men and women in connection with anti-cultism operations in Edo State, describing the practice as a violation of fundamental human rights.

According to a statement released on Thursday, May 15, 2025, the Human Rights Committee (HRC) of the NBA Benin Branch criticized the approach of law enforcement agencies, particularly following the recent announcement by the Edo State Police Command regarding the arrest of 95 suspected cultists.

The statement, titled "Urgent Call to Action: Upholding Human Rights in the Fight Against Cultism," was jointly signed by Itohan Ekama, Vice Chairman of NBA Benin Branch and Chairman of the Human Rights Committee, alongside Emmanuel Okorie, Secretary of the Human Rights Committee.

"It has come to our attention that many of these individuals are being brought to court without thorough investigations or credible evidence linking them to the commission of the alleged offences," the statement read. "This approach not only undermines the integrity of our judicial system and processes but also violates the fundamental rights of the accused."

The NBA emphasized that while they commend efforts to tackle cultism in the state, such efforts must be grounded in the rule of law, respect for human rights, and due process. They described the practice of remanding suspects without proof of evidence as "a relic of the past" that has no place in the modern legal system.

Edo State Police Command spokesman, Moses Yamu, had earlier announced that several of the suspects have been remanded in correctional facilities while investigations continue on others. However, the NBA argues that this approach contradicts the principles of justice and fairness.

"We emphasize that the rule of law is the bedrock of any democratic society. Law enforcement agencies must conduct thorough investigations before bringing charges against individuals. Our courts should be places where justice is dispensed based on credible evidence, not instruments for perpetuating human rights violations and abuses," the statement continued.

The NBA has called on relevant authorities to ensure strict adherence to legal procedures in the fight against cultism. They also urged courts to demand proof of evidence in compliance with the Administration of Criminal Justice Law of Edo State 2018 before remanding suspects.

The association expressed readiness to collaborate with stakeholders to ensure that anti-cultism efforts do not infringe on the rights of innocent individuals, stressing that creating a safer society should not come at the expense of justice, fairness, and respect for human rights.