Okpebholo takes fight against cultism to secondary schools

From Tony Osauzo, Benin

In a bid to tackle cultism from its roots, Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has taken his administration’s anti-cultism campaign to secondary schools in Edo South Senatorial District.

The campaign included the distribution of anti-cultism materials, sensitisation talks, and direct engagement with the students.

Addressing students at Edo Boys High School and Ihogbe College, Governor Okpebholo, represented by his Principal Security Officer, Austin Eigbiremolen, said his administration viewed secondary schools as the base point for curbing cultism, disclosing that Ihogbe College used to be notorious for cultism and cult activities.

He reminded the students that his administration has zero tolerance for corruption, which led to the enactment of stringent laws against cultism that were signed into law.

Coordinator of the Edo Special Security Squad, Amiolemen Idemudia, told the students not to allow their friends to lure them into joining cult groups.

“Okpebholo is telling you there is no hope in cultism.

“Where cultism exists, you have retrogression. Keep away from cult activities. If your friend tries to lure you into the act, simply tell them it is not good,” he said.

Also speaking, a former member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Ehiozuwa Agbonayinma, said the fight against cultism must be a collective responsibility of parents, community leaders, religious institutions, and the youths, and urged the students to choose life over violence, hope over fear, and progress over destruction.

“You must join to protect our communities, secure the future, and build a safer Edo for generations to come.

“Cultism is not an option. Peace is the choice. Cultism is not a path to power, respect, or success. It is a path to destruction, imprisonment, and untimely death,” he added.

Principal of Ihogbe College, Dr Felix Ighodaro, said the school has become a refined place with good students, pointing out that the sensitisation was in the right direction towards curbing cultism in Edo State.