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The Edo State government has signed the Secret Cult and Similar Activities Prohibition Bill, 2025, into law, imposing stricter penalties for cult-related offenses.
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The new law repeals the Edo State Secret Cult Prohibition Law, 2018, and provides for death sentences for those who kill in cult-related activities.
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21 years imprisonment for sponsors, and 10 years imprisonment for those accommodating cultists.
The Edo State government has taken a significant step in addressing the persistent challenge of cult activities in the region.
Governor Monday Okpebholo has signed the Secret Cult and Similar Activities Prohibition Bill, 2025, into law, providing for stricter penalties for anyone involved in cult-related issues.
According to Fred Itua, the Chief Press Secretary to the State Governor, the new law repeals the Edo State Secret Cult Prohibition Law, 2018.
Itua explained that anyone who kills in cult-related activities would receive a death sentence, while those who sponsor cult activities would be liable to 21 years imprisonment.
Also, individuals accommodating cultists or allowing them to use their property for cult activities would face 10 years imprisonment, and their properties would be demolished.
“It is about protecting lives and 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 Edo State back from the hands of criminals and ensuring that families, businesses, and communities can thrive without fear.” He said.
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The new law is a response to the alarming increase in cult-related activities and homicides in the region. Between July and December 2023, the state recorded approximately 135 fatalities due to cult-related incidents and communal clashes.
Further data indicates that from January 2021 to December 2023, over 180 deaths were attributed to gang violence.
The Edo State government has also banned the activities of Okaigheles and cultists in the Edo South communities.
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