Otamere Gladness 
Benin City, Nigeria – The Edo State Government intensifies its crackdown on cultism and drug abuse by taking its awareness campaign directly into secondary schools, reinforcing a zero-tolerance policy backed by newly enacted harsh penalties.
The school outreach, led by Austin Eigbiremolen, Principal Security Officer to Governor Monday Okpebholo, and Idemudia Noah, Coordinator of the Edo State Special Security Squad, reaches several schools including Edo Boys High School and Ihogbe College.
Speaking on behalf of the governor on wednesday, Eigbiremolen says secondary schools represent a critical frontline in tackling cultism. “This administration has zero tolerance for cult-related activities. Strong laws are now in place, and students must understand the consequences,” he tells pupils.
Noah explains that the campaign initially focused on the wider public before authorities recognised growing involvement of young people. “Even primary and secondary school students are now drawn into cultism and drugs. We must intervene early,” he says.
The sensitisation drive, which begins in Edo South Senatorial District, will extend to Edo Central and Edo North, with officials describing the initiative as a grassroots strategy to eradicate cultism statewide.
Guest speakers warn students that cultism and substance abuse threaten education, personal safety and long-term prospects. University of Benin lecturer Dr Chris Okaka urges students to resist peer pressure, saying, “There is nothing positive in cultism or drugs; they destroy ambition.”
The campaign aligns with the Secret Cult and Similar Activities (Prohibition) Law, 2025, signed in January, which prescribes the death penalty for cult-related killings, long jail terms for members and sponsors, and sanctions for landlords or school owners who harbour cult activities.
Students and school administrators commend the initiative, calling it timely and vital to safeguarding the future of Edo youths.
About the Author
Edino Chubiyo Cornelius 
Chukwu Obinna 