The Osun State Police Command has warned individuals and groups against participating in an alleged planned protest linked to the Congress of Cultists, reportedly associated with the Neo-Black Movement of Africa, also known as Black Axe.

The command said it would take decisive action against any individual or group whose activities threaten public peace, security and the safety of residents.

The warning comes amid heightened security concerns in Osun State following a series of violent incidents and security alerts in recent days.

The state government recently approved the establishment of a Joint Security Task Force to strengthen intelligence gathering and security responses to threats to lives and property. The decision followed a State Security Council meeting attended by the Commissioner of Police and other security commanders.

The police warning also comes against the backdrop of recent incidents suspected to be cult-related. On September 15, a man identified as Adejuwon Adekunle, popularly known as Asa, was shot dead near a recreation centre in Osogbo. The Police Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Ojelabi, said preliminary findings suggested that the incident might be cult-related and confirmed that an investigation had commenced.

The command has therefore urged residents to remain vigilant and avoid any gathering capable of escalating tension or disrupting public order.

The police position is consistent with the Nigeria Police Force's broader campaign against cultism and other violent crimes. The Force has described proactive policing, community engagement and early intervention as key elements of its nationwide anti-cultism campaign.

The security situation in Osun has also attracted increased attention following intelligence warnings concerning possible attempts to create insecurity in the South-West. The Department of State Services recently alerted religious leaders in Osun to alleged plans by terrorists to target places of worship, markets and other public gathering centres.

Governor Ademola Adeleke subsequently urged residents to report suspicious persons and movements to security agencies, particularly in border communities.

The police have maintained that residents should cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information that could assist in preventing criminal activities.

The command further warned that anyone found violating the law or attempting to disrupt public peace would face appropriate legal action.

Authorities have continued to urge residents to remain calm, law-abiding and security-conscious while security agencies intensify surveillance and intelligence-led operations across the state.