Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has restated his commitment to eradicating cultism, declaring that his administration will not be deterred by threats or intimidation in its mission to secure the state.
The governor made this known on Tuesday while addressing a group of youths who staged a peaceful demonstration at the Government House in support of the government’s crackdown on cult-related violence.
“If I hadn’t been protected as a youth, I wouldn’t be standing here today as governor,” Okpebholo said.
“We must safeguard our state. Cultism has no place in Edo. Every life is valuable, and no level of threat will stop us from tackling this problem head-on.”
He warned that rising insecurity could undermine investor confidence and halt economic progress in the state.
“A safe environment is essential for growth. If we don’t end these violent acts, investors will stay away,” he noted.
“To build our economy, we need to get rid of criminal elements and put an end to cult killings.”
Governor Okpebholo also addressed concerns surrounding the demolition of a property reportedly connected to a cult group, emphasizing that all actions taken were within the bounds of the law.
“We are not pulling down buildings without legal backing,” he explained. “This is a decisive campaign. Neither I nor the people of Edo State are afraid. Together, we will end this violence.”
He thanked the demonstrators for their support, calling the cult groups “enemies of progress” who aim to derail the state’s future. “Let them continue with their threats—they won’t succeed,” he added.
Moses Joseph, the Edo State Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria, expressed strong support for the governor’s efforts.
“We’re fed up with the bloodshed,” Joseph said. “This rally is a product of a joint resolution by youth and student leaders across the state’s three senatorial districts. We back the governor’s stand against cultism and drug abuse.”
He urged the government to ensure that the recommendations outlined in their resolution are effectively implemented to produce lasting results.
Similarly, youth leader and rights activist, Precious Oruche, commended the administration’s swift response to the security challenge.
“Before you assumed office, cultism had become almost routine,” she said. “Your prompt action is saving lives, and we stand with you.”
She also appealed to security operatives to ensure that innocent people are not wrongly targeted during their operations.
“Despite the opposition from some quarters, we are firmly behind you. We’ll continue to support your efforts and are ready to respond when needed,” she affirmed.