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Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has signed the Secret Cult and Similar Activities Prohibition Bill, 2025, into law, introducing harsher penalties for cult-related offenses. The new law repeals the 2018 Secret Cult Prohibition Law and aims to tackle the growing menace of cultism in the state.
Under the new legislation, individuals who commit murder in connection with cult activities will face the death penalty. Those who finance or sponsor cult groups will be sentenced to 21 years imprisonment. Additionally, anyone found harboring cultists or allowing their property to be used for cult activities risks a 10-year jail term, and the property in question will be demolished.
Fred Itua, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Okpebholo, emphasized that the law reflects the administration’s commitment to restoring peace, security, and order in Edo. “This law is not just about punishment; it is about protecting lives and securing the future of Edo. 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,” Itua stated.
Cultism has long been a significant challenge in Edo, particularly in Benin City, where rival groups like the Eiye Confraternity and Vikings frequently clash. These conflicts often escalate during political campaigns, with allegations that some politicians use cultists to intimidate opponents. The resulting violence has destabilized neighborhoods, disrupted economic activities, and created widespread fear.
Between July and December 2023, Edo recorded approximately 135 fatalities due to cult-related incidents and communal clashes. From January 2021 to December 2023, over 180 deaths were linked to gang violence, with a sharp spike in December 2023 when more than 30 people were killed in clashes between rival cult groups.
In response to the surge in cult-related violence, the state government had earlier banned the activities of Okaigheles (youth leaders) and cultists in Edo South communities. The new law is part of a broader strategy to address the root causes of cultism while enforcing stricter measures to curb violence and restore safety in the state.
