Ogun State Government on Wednesday said it plans to set up a Joint Anti-Cultism Security Task Force comprising all major security outfits, in order to rid the state of the menace of cultism.
IdanNews learnt that the state government made these decisions after a joint security meeting, held at the Governorโs Office, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, Ogun State.
However, the state also plans to set up a special court for cult-related cases and also propose an amnesty programme for would-be cultists who may wish to surrender their weapons.
Recall that Governor Dapo Abiodun on Tuesday during a visit to the palace of the Akarigbo of Remoland, Oba Babatunde Ajayi, following days of cult-related clashes in Sagamu, which left many dead and others injured said his administration would enact a law that would pronounce the death penalty on anyone caught engaging in cult activities in the state.
The Joint Security meeting, according to Governor Abiodun, focused on providing adequate measures to eradicate cultism in the State. He โDuring the Joint Security meeting that took place today (Wednesday), we engaged in fruitful discussions regarding the implementation of measures aimed at combating cultism in Ogun State.โ
โOur primary focus was on establishing a special court, forming a joint operational force comprising various security agencies, and implementing a death penalty for cultism offences.
โIn addition to these measures, we also deliberated on the possibility of introducing a period of amnesty. This would allow individuals who wish to surrender their weapons and renounce their affiliation with any cult-related groups and activities the opportunity to do so without fear of prosecution.
โAs an administration deeply committed to fostering a peaceful and violence-free society, we are dedicated to providing the Special Court and Joint Anti-Cultism Security Task Force with the necessary logistics and tools to support their operations effectively.
โThe overall objective of our conversation is to address the issue of cultism through a multifaceted approach. This will include legal and enforcement measures, rehabilitation efforts, and community engagement through our respected traditional leaders.
โIn conclusion, we are determined to tackle the menace of cultism in our state head-on. By employing a combination of legal frameworks, law enforcement strategies, rehabilitation initiatives, and community involvement, we believe we can bring about lasting change.โ
