The Edo State Commissioner of Police, CP Monday Agbonika, has formally endorsed Project Resisting Initiation, Securing Education also known as (Project RISE), a state-backed initiative with focused on curbing cultism, promoting safe learning environments, and empowering young people across the state and beyond.
In a statement issued by His Special Assistant on Media, Peter Oriri he noted that the endorsement came during a strategic meeting held in Benin City with the Senior Special Assistant to the Edo State Governor on Special Duties, Hon. Uriesi Aarebamen Alex, the project coordinator, The CP expressed strong approval of the project’s mission, and its potential impact, praising its proactive approach to tackling the root causes of youth involvement in cultism and other anti-social behaviours.
CP Agbonika described Project RISE as “a timely and necessary intervention” and commended the efforts of the SSA for his courage and commitment to youth development. “I commend the work you are doing,” he said. “It takes courage and passion to initiate something like this. Our youth need to be saved from the path of destruction, and Project RISE is a step in the right direction.”
Since assuming office in April 2025, CP Agbonika has been vocal and hands-on in his fight against cultism in Edo State. He has embarked on several community engagements, school visits, and public sensitisation campaigns, warning youths about the dangers of cult-related violence and criminality.
During the meeting, he confirmed his participation as one of the guest speakers at the forthcoming Project RISE conference scheduled for August. He said the event would offer an important platform to directly address young people and offer them guidance, warning, and encouragement. “I will be there personally,” he assured. “This is not just a law enforcement issue, it is a moral responsibility. We must speak to our youth and steer them away from destructive behaviours before the law has to catch up with them.”
The Commissioner emphasised that his goal is not just to arrest offenders, but to prevent them from becoming offenders in the first place. “As police officers, we don’t take pride in arresting children. We would rather see them live responsible lives, contribute meaningfully to society, and avoid the prison system altogether,” he added.
CP Agbonika’s endorsement of Project RISE adds momentum to the campaign, which has continued to gain institutional and community support since its inception. His involvement also sends a powerful message of collaboration between security agencies and civil society in confronting the challenge of youth involvement in cultism.
Project RISE, designed as a preventive initiative, engages students, parents, lecturers, and community leaders through advocacy, education, and mentorship. It aims to equip young people with the tools to resist peer pressure, reject cult recruitment, and make informed life choices.
With the Commissioner’s backing, Hon. Uriesi say they are more confident in the growing impact of the project, and are calling on more stakeholders to support the movement toward safer schools and communities.
The August conference will feature speakers from the security sector, education, civil society, governments, and youth advocacy groups, and is expected to draw hundreds of participants from across the state.