Rising Cult-Related Violence Sparks Security Concerns Across Southern Nigeria
Cult-related violence is escalating, posing severe security challenges to schools, communities, and businesses in southern Nigeria.
The situation has led to numerous fatalities, including that of a senior police officer in the Niger Delta region. Investigations by LEADERSHIP Sunday reveal that the violence is concentrated in states in southern Nigeria, engulfing entire communities and forcing security agencies to withdraw in some instances, despite police efforts and recent arrests.
According to LEADERSHIP Sunday’s findings, cultism-related violence is predominantly fueled by the use of hard drugs.
In Akwa Ibom, for example, the state’s Anti-Cult Unit was established to combat the rising issue, with violence resulting in numerous deaths over the past year.
Disturbingly, cultism has infiltrated secondary schools, with children as young as 10 being indoctrinated into these groups, posing a serious threat to the education system.
In response to the crisis, the Akwa Ibom government intervened by erecting perimeter fencing in notorious secondary schools and implementing measures to curb the influx of expelled students involved in cult activities.
At the University of Uyo, effective security management has contributed to a calm environment, while the Akwa Ibom State University has witnessed cult killings, creating fear among students.
To address the upsurge in cultism, Governor Umo Eno created a new Ministry of Internal Security, emphasizing the government’s determination to combat criminal activities in the state.
In Rivers State, cult groups operate more in communities than in educational institutions, particularly in Ahoada-East, Ahoada-West, and Port Harcourt City local government areas.
Factions of the Iceland cult group engage in deadly activities, adversely affecting businesses and leading to the death of the former Divisional Police Officer in charge of Ahoada Police Division.
Civil rights activist Prince Wiro calls for intelligence and technology-driven policing to curb cult activities and emphasizes the need for security agencies to earn the trust of the people for effective collaboration.
Imo State is grappling with a surge in cult-related activities, causing panic among residents. Cult wars have resulted in gruesome killings, prompting calls for government and security agencies to intervene urgently.
Incidents of cult clashes have also been reported in Edo State, claiming the lives of youths in higher learning institutions and motor park touts.
Governor Ademola Adeleke’s intervention in Osun State has curbed cult activities, bringing peace to residents.
Stringent measures, including the threat of expulsion and prosecution, have contributed to a decline in violent attacks.
Benue State has experienced a spike in bloody clashes between rival cultists, prompting the State Police Command to declare a war against cultism and kidnapping.
Over 30 suspected cultists have been arrested, signaling the commitment of law enforcement to tackle the menace.
In Bayelsa, the legislative measures and proactive efforts of security agencies have resulted in a reduction in cult-related incidents.
The state has witnessed a few notable incidents, including the sentencing of a 20-year-old for cultism, robbery, and unlawful possession of a firearm.
In conclusion, cult-related violence is a growing concern in southern Nigeria, affecting schools, communities, and businesses.
Governments and security agencies are implementing measures to curb the menace, but collaborative efforts and innovative strategies are crucial to effectively address the root causes and ensure lasting peace.
Source: Leadership News
