Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has signed into law a new bill imposing a 21-year jail term for cult members and their sponsors. The bill, which repeals the earlier 2018 law, introduces stricter punishments for anyone found guilty of secret cult-related offences in the state.
The Secretary to the State Government, Umar Ikhllor, confirmed the law's passage in a statement on Tuesday, urging the public to avoid actions that could disturb the peace and development of Edo State.
Effective from January 24, 2025, the new "Secret Cult and Similar Activities (Prohibition) Law, 2025" prescribes tough penalties. Section 5 of the law mandates a 21-year sentence for those found to financially or materially sponsor cult activities. Section 6 further provides for a 10-year sentence for individuals who harbor cult members or permit cult meetings at their properties.
In more severe cases, Section 12 specifies that anyone involved in assault, maiming, or killing in connection with cult activities will face a 21-year imprisonment. If the offense leads to death, the perpetrators may face the death penalty, and their properties, including their homes, will be confiscated and demolished by the state government.
The Governor's office reiterated that these changes aim to strengthen the fight against secret cults and their impact on public safety and state development.
