Nigeria's Deadliest Cult Groups and the Scourge of Cultism
Lagos, Nigeria – Cultism in Nigeria has transformed from its academic origins into a dangerous network characterized by violence, crime, and intimidation. What began with the noble intentions of promoting anti-colonial ideals and social justice has devolved into a pervasive threat, with notorious groups like Black Axe, Vikings, and Eiye instilling widespread fear due to their ruthless tactics and strict codes of loyalty.
The roots of cultism trace back to 1952 with the establishment of the Pyrates Confraternity by Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka and six other students at University College, Ibadan. This group initially aimed for intellectual discourse and social change, but over the decades, its vision was distorted, leading to the proliferation of numerous violent offshoots.
The Significance of 7/7 Cult Day
July 7th, known as "7/7 Cult Day," is a symbolic and notorious date, particularly for members of the Neo-Black Movement (NBM), also known as Black Axe. This day is observed as an annual "founders' day" or a sacred occasion for rituals and gatherings. On 7/7, cult groups reportedly:
Remember fallen members.
Reaffirm commitment to their brotherhood.
Engage in initiation or cleansing rituals.
Sometimes carry out retaliatory or violent acts against rival groups.
Due to the historical prevalence of violence, street fights, killings, and even reports of human sacrifices associated with past 7/7 celebrations, security agencies across Nigeria are typically on high alert around this date.
Eight Notorious Cult Groups in Nigeria
Below are some of the deadliest cult groups operating in Nigeria, known for their violent activities and impact on communities and campuses:
The Pyrates (Sea Dogs)
Colors: Yellow, Red & BlackOrigin: Founded in 1952 at the University College Ibadan by Wole Soyinka and six others. While originally promoting human rights and social justice, some offshoots have diverged from these ideals.
Buccaneer Confraternity (Sea Lords)
Colors: White, Black & Yellow
Origin: Established in 1972 by former Pyrates members. Though they mirror Pyrate symbolism, they generally lack the original social advocacy ethos.
The Vikings (Norsemen / Supreme Vikings Confraternity)
Colors: Black & Red
Origin: Started in 1982 at the University of Port Harcourt by former Buccaneers. Also known as De Norsemen Club of Nigeria.
Neo-Black Movement of Africa (Black Axe)
Colors: Yellow & Black
Origin: Created in 1977 at the University of Benin with a Pan-Africanist vision. Ironically, this group produced the notorious Black Axe, which is heavily involved in organized crime and violent campus wars.
Supreme Eiye Confraternity (Air Lords)
Colors: Blue & White
Origin: Founded in 1963 by University of Ibadan students. Also known as HABA-KRIER, it has been linked to violent ritualistic initiations and atrocities.
Mafia Confraternity (Ciao-Sons)
Colors: Purple
Origin: Formed in 1978 at the University of Ilorin, formally operating from Obafemi Awolowo University in 1980.
Dedy Na Debt / Klansmen Konfraternity (KKK)
Colors: Black & White
Origin: Started in 1986 at the University of Calabar, borrowing ideals from a U.S. cult. Known for off-campus support wings and suspected involvement in revenge and turf wars.
Maphite Confraternity / Green Circuit Association
Colors: Green
Origin: Starting point unknown, but considered highly dangerous, particularly at Ambrose Ali University, Benin, Edo State, where they are linked to turf control and criminality.
Despite continuous efforts by authorities to curb their activities, cult groups persist both within educational institutions and broader communities, fostering a pervasive culture of fear and destruction in various parts of Nigeria. The message remains clear: Cultism destroys lives; it's not worth it. Say no to cultism.
