In a decisive move to tackle cult-related violence and insecurity, the Edo State government has signed the Secret Cult and Similar Activities Prohibition Bill, 2025, into law. This new legislation introduces harsher penalties for individuals and groups involved in cultism, including the death sentence for those who commit murder in cult-related activities and 21 years imprisonment for sponsors of cult groups.
With the signing of this bill, the Edo State Secret Cult Prohibition Law, 2018, has been repealed, signaling the government’s intensified crackdown on the persistent menace of cultism.
Speaking on the new law, Fred Itua, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo, emphasized that it underscores the administration’s commitment to restoring peace, security, and social order in the state. “THIS LAW IS NOT JUST ABOUT PUNISHMENT; IT IS ABOUT PROTECTING LIVES AND SECURING THE FUTURE OF EDO STATE,” ITUA STATED. “CULT ACTIVITIES HAVE ROBBED MANY YOUNG PEOPLE OF THEIR POTENTIAL, TURNING THEM INTO INSTRUMENTS OF VIOLENCE RATHER THAN CONTRIBUTORS TO SOCIETY.”
Beyond direct involvement in cultism, the law also penalizes those who harbor or provide property for cultists, imposing a 10-year prison sentence and demolition of such properties.
Edo State has been plagued by violent cult wars, particularly in Benin City, where clashes between groups like the Eiye Confraternity, Vikings, and others have led to widespread killings and destruction. These conflicts frequently escalate during election periods, with cult groups allegedly used by politicians to intimidate opponents.
The impact has been devastating. Between July and December 2023 alone, approximately 135 people lost their lives due to cult-related violence and communal clashes. Further reports indicate that over 180 deaths occurred between January 2021 and December 2023, with a particularly violent resurgence in December 2023, claiming more than 30 lives.
The Edo State government had previously banned Okaigheles (youth enforcers) and cultists in Edo South communities to curb escalating violence. The latest law strengthens these efforts by ensuring strict enforcement and severe consequences for offenders.
With the introduction of this tougher anti-cultism law, the state government aims to restore confidence among residents, foster a safer environment for businesses, and prevent further loss of lives. This law serves as both a deterrent to potential offenders and a commitment to making Edo State free from the grip of cult violence.
