Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has warned cult members who refuse to abandon their groups that his administration will show them no mercy, as hundreds of people publicly renounced cultism in the state.
The governor gave the warning on Monday, October 12, during a mass cult renunciation ceremony organised by the Edo State Special Security Squad at the Sir Victor Uwaifo Creative Hub on Airport Road in Benin City.
Reports on the event differ on the number of participants, with some putting the figure at over 500 and others reporting that more than 100 people took part. The participants reportedly took an oath of dissociation, pledging to cut ties with their former groups and embrace peaceful, law-abiding lives.
Addressing the participants, Okpebholo said those who willingly renounced cultism would receive support, while those who refused to turn away from criminal activities would face the consequences.
“No Mercy for Cultists Who Refuse to Renounce. Those Who Renounce, There’s Something Awaiting You. I Will Invite You People Again to Government House,” the governor said.
The initiative forms part of the state government’s efforts to curb cult-related violence and improve security.
However, the event has sparked debate on X, with some Nigerians questioning whether the initiative could be used for political purposes ahead of the 2027 general election.
Social Media Reactions
@maazi_paschal: Lol. Is this not an election rigging mechanism?
@sirvvage: Them they find thug to employ 😂
@Ataching: He wants to prepare them for 2027
@cadomatrix: Upcoming ballots snatchers loading 😎
@Ovoads: Wow. Invite them to govt house instead of sending them to prison. Nigeria is a joke
@IamtheOYE: Eh sir….Is it before election or after election sir?
@SOLUDERO1: Mumu Everybody wey dey here na APC thugs…..
