OVER 100 RENOUNCE CULTISM IN EDO AS GOVERNOR OKPEBHOLO ISSUES STERN WARNING TO UNREPENTANT CULTISTS

State government hosts mass renunciation ceremony in Benin City, offering state-backed rehabilitation and skill acquisition programs while cautioning that law enforcement will show zero tolerance for ongoing criminal activities

In a major breakthrough for regional public safety, over one hundred former members of various secret cult groups have publicly renounced their membership during a government-organized mass renunciation ceremony held in Benin City, Edo State.  

The public declaration marks a central milestone in the state administration's comprehensive security drive aimed at curbing inter-group violence, violent crime, and youth radicalization across urban centers.

Presiding over the civic event, Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo commended the repentant youths for choosing peace and social integration, assuring them that the state government will provide vocational training, educational assistance, and psychosocial support to ensure their smooth reintegration into society.

Governor Okpebholo warned unrepentant cultists and criminal elements still operating within the state that his administration will enforce a zero-tolerance policy against cultism, armed robbery, and associated violent crimes.  

Reaffirming the state’s resolve, the governor cautioned that law enforcement agencies have been fully empowered to track, arrest, and prosecute anyone engaging in cult-related gatherings or violent clashes.

He reiterated that properties, operational bases, or residential quarters found to be utilized for secret cult meetings or illicit operations will be confiscated and demolished in accordance with existing state anti-cultism laws.

Community leaders, security operatives, and civil society representatives present at the ceremony applauded the initiative, urging parents, guardians, and religious leaders across Edo State to actively counsel young people against joining illicit groups and support state-wide efforts to foster lasting peace.