Osun: Police warn cultists against planned July activities
Osun State Police Warn Against Cult Activities on July 7
OSOGBO, Nigeria — The Osun State Police Command has issued a warning to cult groups and their members, urging them to refrain from any activities planned to commemorate July 7, 2026.
This warning comes in response to intelligence reports indicating that several cult groups intend to hold celebrations across the country on that date. In a statement released on Monday, Police Public Relations Officer DSP Abiodun Ojelabi conveyed concerns on behalf of Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Gotan. The reports suggest that some groups are planning to initiate secondary school students into their ranks on July 7.
Characterizing these planned activities as unlawful, the police emphasized that security agencies are closely monitoring suspected cultists throughout the state. The statement added that “adequate personnel and operational assets have been deployed to strategic locations to ensure the safety of lives and property during this period.”
Additionally, police operations including stop-and-search duties, patrols, and surveillance have been intensified to preempt any disturbances to public peace. CP Gotan has directed Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers (DPOs), and Commanders of the Violent Crime Response Units (VCRUs) to remain vigilant.
The police command also urged parents, guardians, school authorities, and community leaders to discourage the youth from associating with cult groups or participating in gatherings connected to cult activities. They reiterated that cultism constitutes a criminal offense and cautioned that anyone found organizing, participating in, or promoting cult-related activities would face arrest and prosecution.
Furthermore, the police warned hotel owners, as well as proprietors of recreation and event centers, against allowing their facilities to be used for cult-related meetings, stating that violators could be prosecuted.
While assuring residents of adequate security measures, the command encouraged the public to carry on with their lawful activities without fear. They also called for community cooperation in reporting suspicious activities or movements of cultists and other criminals through the emergency line, 08039537995.