40 CROSS RIVER YOUTHS RENOUNCE CULTISM

About 40 youths in Abini community, Biase Local Government Area of Cross River State, have renounced cultism and pledged to embrace peace and lawful living.

The youths made the commitment during a sensitisation and engagement programme organised by the Cross River State Police Command in partnership with the Abini Elites Association and the LauraHope Foundation.

During the programme, the former cult members publicly denounced their groups and signed peace undertakings, promising to stay away from violence, cult-related activities and other forms of criminality.

They also apologised to members of their communities and pledged to serve as ambassadors of peace while encouraging other young people to reject cultism.

A community leader, Ukam Uno, described the decision as an important step towards restoring peace in the area. He urged government and other stakeholders to support the youths with skills acquisition and empowerment opportunities to help them build sustainable livelihoods.

The Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Sunday Eitokpah, said the initiative formed part of the command’s community-based crime prevention strategy.

The police urged the youths to remain committed to their decision and contribute positively to the development and security of their communities.

The development highlights the role of community engagement, rehabilitation and youth empowerment in efforts to reduce cult-related activities in Cross River State.