The Edo United Women for Good Governance (EDUWGOG) has expressed its strong support for Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo following his recent signature of the Secret Cult and Similar Activities (Prohibition) Law 2025. The organization believes this decisive move will significantly curb cultism and youth violence in Edo State.
During a press conference in Benin City, Mrs. Philo Akanose, chairperson of EDUWGOG, remarked that the new law demonstrates the governor’s commitment to effective governance and an unwavering resolve to tackle issues that plagued the state during the previous administration led by Godwin Obaseki. She highlighted that Edo had become a haven for cult activities, where perpetrators operated with impunity, knowing they would escape justice due to their connections within the government.
Akanose emphasized the importance of the 2025 law, asserting that it sends a clear message to cultists that they will no longer find sanctuary in Edo State. She noted, “The Secret Cult and Similar Activities (Prohibition) Law 2025 is a serious legislative measure aimed at addressing cult-related issues head-on. Under Governor Okpebholo’s leadership, cultists have no hiding place.”
Reflecting on the challenges faced during the Obaseki administration, she recalled the numerous protests organized by the group in response to the violence that claimed the lives of many loved ones. “We witnessed our husbands, brothers, uncles, and friends murdered often in broad day light while the assailants roamed free. The enactment of this law offers a glimmer of hope that such bloodshed will be halted.”
Mrs. Akanose praised Governor Okpebholo for collaborating effectively with the Edo State House of Assembly to repeal the previous Secret Cult (Prohibition) Law of 2018 and replace it with the more robust 2025 version, which includes increased penalties for offenders. She highlighted the law’s comprehensive approach, which targets not only cult members but also financial sponsors and individuals who provide shelter for cult activities.
“This law imposes severe repercussions for anyone involved in cult-related offences. It includes penalties for those who knowingly provide refuge to cult members and imposes the demolition of properties used for such meetings,” Mrs. Akanose stated, expressing confidence that the new legislation will fundamentally alter the safety landscape in Edo State.
The EDUWGOG chair emphasized the significance of this legislative achievement as a pivotal moment for governance in Edo, asserting, “Governor Okpebholo’s courageous action marks a turning point towards creating a safer, more governable state and addressing the crisis of cultism that has plagued our communities for far too long.”