In a bold move to curb the menace of cultism, Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has signed into law a new legislation that prescribes a 21-year prison sentence for anyone involved in cult activities, including their sponsors.
The announcement was made by Nigerian Stories via its official X (formerly Twitter) handle, sparking widespread reactions from citizens and stakeholders. The new law underscores the state government’s zero-tolerance stance on violent gangs, secret societies, and criminal networks that have long terrorized communities across the state.
Governor Okpebholo, in his remarks, emphasized that cultism has been a major threat to peace, security, and the future of young people in Edo State, vowing that his administration would deploy all necessary measures to root out the scourge.
With this decisive legislation, Edo State has sent a strong message that cult-related violence, extortion, and intimidation will no longer be tolerated. The law is expected to serve as a deterrent while giving security agencies the legal backing to apprehend and prosecute offenders without leniency.
The development has sparked mixed reactions, with some commending the move as a necessary step to restore law and order, while others have called for more preventive measures, including youth empowerment and education, to tackle the root causes of cultism.
This landmark decision is set to reshape the fight against criminality in Edo State, as authorities gear up for strict enforcement of the new law.
PIONEER NEWS 