Edo State is taking a strong stand against secret cults with the signing of a new law by Governor Monday Okpebholo. The law introduces stricter punishments, including a 21-year jail term for cultists and their sponsors.

The Secretary to the Edo State Government, Umar Ikhilor, explained that the new law replaces the previous one, aiming to curb the rising violence and criminal activities linked to cult groups. He urged citizens to be mindful of their actions, emphasizing that such activities are harmful to the state’s peace and progress.

He said: “It is hereby announced for the information of the public that the Edo State Secret Cult (Prohibition Law) 2018 has been repealed by the Edo State House of Assembly.“By virtue of the repeal, the Secret Cult and Similar Activities (Prohibition) Law, 2025, has been passed by the Edo State House of Assembly, and signed into law by the Governor of the State, His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo, effective from 24 January, 2025.“Please be informed that in the new law, there are provisions for stricter penalties for anyone found guilty of secret cult-related offences in the state. Section 5 of the law prescribes 21 years of imprisonment for financial and material sponsors of secret cults.“Additionally, Section 6 of the law provides for 10 years of imprisonment for those who knowingly harbour members of a secret cult or permit secret cult meetings or activities to take place in any house, building, or location under their control.”

Under the new law, those who shelter cult members will also face a 10-year jail sentence. In addition to imprisonment, their properties will be confiscated and demolished by the state government.

Edo has been plagued by deadly cult conflicts, often involving young people. These clashes have led to numerous deaths and the destruction of valuable property. The new law is expected to help reduce these violent incidents and promote a safer environment for all.

He said: “Section 12 of the law clearly states: ‘Any person found to be a cultist under Section 4, who assaults, injures, maims, or kills any person(s) or destroys any property in furtherance of the activities of any secret cult, is guilty of an offence and is liable to 21 years of imprisonment without an option of fine.

“In the case of a fatality, the perpetrator(s) shall be liable to the death penalty upon conviction, and any property in their name, as well as their places of residence, shall be confiscated and demolished by the state government.”

Edo State is committed to protecting its citizens and ensuring that cult-related crimes are eliminated for good. With these stronger penalties, the government hopes to send a clear message that cultism will not be tolerated in the state.