The Edo State Government has announced plans to host a mass renunciation ceremony for youths willing to abandon cult-related activities as part of efforts to tackle cultism and youth violence across the state.
The ceremony is scheduled for Monday, October 12, 2026, at the Victor Uwaifo Creative Hub, Airport Road, Benin City, beginning at 11:00 a.m.
Governor Monday Okpebholo is expected to serve as the chief host at the event, which is being organised by the Edo State Special Security Squad.
The announcement was contained in an invitation letter dated October 5 and signed by Saturday Austin Oko, Principal Security Officer to the governor.
According to the letter, the initiative is designed to encourage youths who have resolved to turn away from cult-related activities to embrace peace, lawful living and productive citizenship.
The programme forms part of the state government’s broader campaign against cultism and violence involving young people.
The government is urging youths who are ready to abandon cult-related activities to take advantage of the initiative and commit themselves to a peaceful and law-abiding lifestyle.
The ceremony is expected to provide a platform for repentant youths to publicly renounce cultism and demonstrate their commitment to turning a new page.
The initiative comes amid continued concerns over the impact of cult-related violence on public safety, communities and the future of young people in Edo State.
