Edo State Enacts Tougher Anti-Cultism Law, Imposes Death Sentence for Killings
In a decisive move to curb cult-related violence, the Edo State government has signed the Secret Cult and Similar Activities Prohibition Bill, 2025, into law, introducing stricter penalties for anyone involved in cultism.
This new legislation repeals the Edo State Secret Cult Prohibition Law, 2018, and aims to restore peace and security in the state, which has long struggled with cult-related killings and criminal activities.
Harsh Penalties for Cultists and Their Sponsors
Fred Itua, the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo, revealed the key provisions of the new law, including:
- Death sentence for anyone found guilty of murder in cult-related activities.
- 21 years imprisonment for individuals who sponsor or finance cult groups.
- 10 years imprisonment for those who harbor cultists or allow their property to be used for cult activities, with the property facing demolition.
Itua emphasized that the law is not just about punishment but about securing the future of Edo State.
“Cult activities have robbed many young people of their potential, turning them into instruments of violence rather than contributors to society. With this legislation, Edo people are taking their state back from criminals and ensuring that families, businesses, and communities can thrive without fear,” he stated.
Rising Cult Violence in Edo State
Cultism has remained a persistent problem in Edo State, fueling insecurity, gang wars, and political violence, especially in major cities like Benin City. Well-known cult groups such as Eiye Confraternity and Vikings have been at the center of bloody clashes, which often escalate during election periods, with politicians accused of using cultists as enforcers.
The violence has resulted in hundreds of deaths, with official records showing that:
- 135 fatalities were recorded between July and December 2023 due to cult-related violence.
- Over 180 deaths were linked to cultism between January 2021 and December 2023.
- A resurgence in December 2023 alone saw over 30 individuals killed in rival cult clashes.
In response to the rising death toll, the Edo State government had previously banned the activities of Okaigheles (youth leaders) and cultists in Edo South communities.
A Call for Action
The enactment of this law underscores the government’s commitment to tackling cultism through legal enforcement, deterrence, and community safety measures. However, experts argue that in addition to strict penalties, the government must invest in education, job creation, and youth empowerment programs to address the root causes of cultism.
With this legislation in place, Edo State hopes to turn the tide against cult-related violence, ensuring a safer environment for its residents.