Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has signed a new law that prescribes a 21-year prison sentence for individuals involved in secret cult activities and their financial backers.
This legislative change, confirmed in a statement released on Tuesday by Umar Ikhllor, the Secretary to the State Government, aims to strengthen efforts against the rising tide of cult-related crimes within the state.
The recently signed legislation repeals the Edo State Secret Cult (Prohibition Law) 2018 and introduces the Secret Cult and Similar Activities (Prohibition) Law, 2025, which will take effect on January 24, 2025. The new law incorporates significantly harsher sanctions designed to deter participants and sponsors of cult activities.
In his statement, Ikhllor reiterated the government’s relentless pursuit of peace and security for the state’s citizens. He cautioned the public against actions that could endanger Edo’s progress and development. “It is hereby announced for the information of the public that the Edo State Secret Cult (Prohibition Law) 2018 has been repealed by the Edo State House of Assembly,” the statement read.
Key provisions of the new law specify that individuals found guilty of sponsoring cults could face a lengthy 21-year prison term. Those who provide shelter or facilitate cult activities will also face severe consequences, including a 10-year imprisonment term.
Furthermore, the law stipulates that properties associated with individuals harboring cult members or allowing cult meetings on their premises will be confiscated and demolished by government authorities.
The statement elaborated, “Section 12 of the law clearly states: ‘Any person found to be a cultist under Section 4, who assaults, injures, maims, or kills any person(s) or destroys any property in furtherance of the activities of any secret cult, is guilty of an offence and is liable to 21 years of imprisonment without an option of fine. In the case of a fatality, the perpetrator(s) shall be liable to the death penalty upon conviction, and any properties in their name, as well as their place of residence, shall be confiscated and demolished by the State Government.’”
The Edo State government encourages the public to remain vigilant and refrain from engaging in activities that may disrupt the peace and promote negative social behaviors, emphasizing the importance of community cooperation in the fight against cultism.
