From Moshood Karim
In a determined effort to combat the menace of cultism, illicit drug abuse, and violent crimes, the Edo State Government, through its Ministry of Communication and Orientation, organized an anti-cultism sensitization rally and lecture on Tuesday.
Themed, “Cultism: An Evil Wind That Blows No Good,” the event aimed to raise awareness and educate the public, especially the youth, on the dangers and ills of cultism.
The rally, which traversed major streets in Benin City, culminated at the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) Edo State Council Press Centre. Here, NUJ Secretary Mr. Andy Egbon, representing the Chairman, commended the Ministry’s initiative to enlighten the populace and eradicate cultism in the state.
“I welcome you to the Press Centre of the Nigerian Union of Journalists, Edo State Council,” Egbon stated.
“Cultism has caused more harm than good, and over a hundred lives have been lost to cult-related activities in the past six months. This program is timely and crucial in changing the mindset of those involved in or considering joining cults.”
The lecture, held at the John Odigie Public Service Academy, featured notable speakers who reinforced the urgent need to address cultism. Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Mr. Chris Nehikhare, represented by Permanent Secretary Dr. Desmond Agbama, expressed gratitude to various stakeholders for their commitment to this cause. He pledged the Ministry’s continued support for initiatives aimed at eradicating cultism.
“Part of our mandate is to educate, enlighten, and reorientate the people on societal values,” Nehikhare said.
“This year, we are focusing on cultism due to the alarming increase in violent deaths among Edo youths caused by cult clashes.”
Highlighting the depth of the issue, Nehikhare revealed, “Research shows that cultism has infiltrated our primary school system, with children under 12 already involved in cult groups. This is a societal menace that requires divine intervention.”
Representative of Mr. Babayo Maisanda of the Nigerian Correctional Service warned youths against the perils of cultism, noting its destructive path often leads to incarceration or death.
Representatives from various organizations, including the Catholic Youth Organisation and Nigeria Girl’s Guild Association, emphasized the need for collective efforts and highlighted the role of corruption among security personnel in perpetuating cultism.
Ernest Abebe, Deputy Coordinator of Man O’ War, Benin, called for addressing cultism at higher levels of government, citing involvement of high-ranking officials in secret cults. He stressed the importance of a unified approach to tackle the challenge.
Edo State Commissioner for Youth and Humanitarian Affairs, Hon. Zubairu Dada Abubakar, linked cultism to drug abuse and cybercrime. He called for comprehensive sensitization programs involving schools, religious organizations, and the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC). “Our youths need to be gainfully employed and encouraged. They are tired of being told they are the leaders of tomorrow; they want to lead today,” Abubakar asserted.
Guest Lecturer Dr. Dan Eheremnen Enowoghomwema who is the Director of Academic Planning and Quality Assurance at Edo State College of Education, defined cultism as the practice of blindly following harmful beliefs promoted by groups using coercion and intimidation.
He outlined the adverse effects of cultism, including social isolation, financial exploitation, and emotional manipulation.
Enowoghomwema advocated for education, community engagement, family support, media awareness, and exit strategies for those wishing to leave cults.
The event successfully raised awareness and inspired collective action against cultism in Edo State, marking a significant step towards creating a safer and more informed society.
