The Edo State Governor has repealed the State Secret Cult Prohibition Law, 2018, by signing the Secret Cult and Similar Activities Prohibition Bill, 2025, into law.
The newly enacted Edo State House of Assembly bill, which Governor Monday Okpebholo signed, will go into effect on January 24, 2025.
In a statement released on Thursday, Fred Itua, the governor’s chief press secretary, said that the new law punishes those involved in cult-related acts more severely.
Those who kill in the service of cult-related activities will be executed, he said, while those who materially or financially support the crime will face 21 years in prison if convicted.
The statement hinted that harbouring cultists or permitting cult activity on one’s property carries a 10-year prison sentence and property demolition.
“This new law stipulates that those who financially or materially support cultism will be imprisoned for 21 years; those who harbour cultists or permit their property to be used for cult-related activities will be imprisoned for 10 years and have their property demolished; cultists who commit assault, injury, or property destruction will be imprisoned for 21 years; and those who commit killings in support of cult activities will be executed,” Itua said.
“These actions are meant to act as a powerful deterrent to those who have chosen to jeopardise the peace and security of Edo State, not to threaten law-abiding citizens.”
The action, according to Itua, shows Okpebholo’s dedication to bringing peace, security, and order back to Edo State.
“This law is about safeguarding Edo State’s future and preserving lives, not merely about punishing people. Many young individuals have lost their potential as a result of cult activities, becoming violent weapons instead of valuable members of society. The Edo people are regaining control of Edo State from criminals and guaranteeing that towns, businesses, and families can prosper fearlessly with this legislation.
“Deliberate measures are taken to make sure that criminality does not pay by demolishing and seizing assets associated with cult activity. In Edo State, those who support and encourage cultism will no longer have a place to hide.”
He stated that the government is making it very evident that Edo State is for law-abiding people, not criminals.
