Edo govt laments rising widows, fatherless children from cult-related killings
Edo State Government Launches Campaign Against Cultism and Drug Abuse
BENIN CITY, Edo State — The Edo State Government has raised concerns over the rise in cult-related violence, citing an increase in widows and fatherless children as a consequence of such criminal activities.
John Izegaegbe, the Secretary of the Edo State Special Security Squad, commonly referred to as “Operation Flush Out Kidnappers and Cultists,” made these remarks on Wednesday during the launch of a new state initiative aimed at combating cultism and drug abuse.
Izegaegbe emphasized the need for community involvement in addressing these pressing issues, calling on all stakeholders to support the government’s efforts. He noted that the administration led by Governor Monday Okpebholo is targeting schools to educate students about the dangers associated with drug abuse and cultism.
“We aim to catch children young,” he said, explaining that early intervention is critical in curbing the trend.
Idemudia Noah, the Coordinator of the Special Security Squad and Principal Security Officer to the governor, noted that the governor has declared a zero-tolerance policy toward drug abuse and cultism. As a result, the squad was established to address these challenges more effectively.
Noah shared that the campaign has included visits to several educational institutions, including Ihogbe College and Akenzua Senior Secondary School, to raise awareness among students.
He pointed out that the government initially directed its outreach towards the broader public but has since shifted focus to engage directly with students, from primary through tertiary levels. The campaign began in Edo South and is planned to extend to the Central and Northern senatorial districts.
“The message will spread across the nation,” Noah added, highlighting the importance of grassroots involvement.
Former House of Representatives member Hon. Ehiozuwa Johnson Agbonayinma, also a speaker at the event, emphasized that cultism and drug dependence pose significant threats to society. He urged students to reject these vices, stressing their detrimental effects on futures.
In support of the initiative, Mr. Usiobafo Nicholas, Junior Principal of Edo Boys High School, called for the establishment of anti-cultism clubs in secondary schools throughout the state’s 18 local government areas to further disseminate the message.
Students from Ihogbe College, including Head Girl Aisosa Osakpamwan and Head Boy Blessed Edomwonyi, expressed gratitude to the governor for the timely campaign, affirming its potential to help reduce cultism in schools.
