Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has declared that his administration will not yield to intimidation or threats in its determination to eliminate cultism in the state.
Speaking to youths who staged a peaceful rally at the Government House on Tuesday, the governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting the lives of all Edo residents from the menace of cult violence.
“If my life had not been protected as a youth, I would not have become the governor of Edo State today,” Okpebholo said. “We must save our land. Cultism must stop in Edo State. Every Edo blood matters to us as an administration, and no matter the intimidation, the fight against cultism is total.”
He warned that insecurity threatens investments and economic development in the state.
“Edo must be safe for all. Otherwise, investors will be afraid to come into the state because they would feel it is not safe for them and their investments. The way to attract investors is to stop cult killings and send bad people away from the state,” he added.
The governor also addressed the demolition of a building allegedly linked to a cult organisation, stating that due process was followed.
“We are not demolishing buildings arbitrarily. This is a resolute fight. I am not afraid of them, and neither is my administration nor the Edo people. Together, we will stop the cult killings,” he said.
“I thank you all for taking this stand and supporting our determination to stop cultism in Edo State. These cultists are our enemies and want to kill the dreams of the state. They should continue in their threats—they will not stop us.”
The Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria, Edo State Chapter, Moses Joseph, declared the support of Edo youths for the governor’s stance.
“We are all tired of cult killings in Edo State and support the governor in the fight against cultism and drug abuse,” he said. “This peaceful rally is a result of a communique reached by students and youth leaders from the three senatorial districts.”
He stressed that Edo youths were united in opposing cultism and drug abuse and urged that the resolutions of their communique be implemented to yield meaningful results.
A youth leader and human rights activist, Precious Oruche, also expressed support for the governor’s actions.
“Youths in the state are tired of innocent lives being lost to cultism,” she said. “Before you became governor, cultism was almost a ritual in the state. We commend your swift actions to curb the trend.”
She called on security agencies to avoid victimising innocent citizens while carrying out investigations.
“We noticed that some persons are condemning the moves your administration has taken. We are behind you. We will support your actions and be ready to stand with you when called upon,” she added.
Madukwe B. Nwabuisi is an accomplished journalist renown for his fearless reporting style and extensive expertise in the field. He is an investigative journalist, who has established himself as a kamikaze reporter.
