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<\/figure>\n\n\n\nWho are the Black Axe?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
They are one of the most notorious secret societies to have emerged from Nigeria.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Black Axe surfaced in the 1970s and were originally known as the Neo Black Movement. Its founders said the group\u2019s aim was to \u201cliberate\u201d the black race.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But at universities, the group no longer seems to be driven by any political ideology. Instead, Black Axe members are accused of numerous killings and sexual attacks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Other Nigerian secret societies, also referred to as confraternities and campus cults, have names like Vikings, Eiye (a word in the local Yoruba language for bird), and the Buccaneers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
They have a chain of command similar to militia groups, use code words and have insignia bearing the favourite weapon of the cult, along with its colour.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Members are promised protection from rival gangs, but it is mostly about power and popularity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
These secret societies are banned in Nigeria, and hundreds of members have been arrested and prosecuted over the years. Nevertheless, they continue to operate in the country, especially on university campuses, where they still attract new members.<\/p>\n\n\n\n