Benin City, April 30, 2025 — The Edo State House of Assembly has called for immediate action to curb the resurgence of cult-related violence that is spreading fear and insecurity across the state.
Raising the matter on the floor of the House, Hon. Bright Iyamu (APC, Orhionmwon South) lamented the increasing number of killings linked to cult activities, which he described as a serious threat to public safety.
Iyamu referenced the Secret Cult and Similar Activities (Prohibition) Law 2025, which criminalises cultism in all forms and empowers law enforcement to act swiftly against offenders.
He cited recent tragic incidents, including the killing of a medical doctor at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) and another fatal shooting in G.R.A., Benin City. “The entire state is living in fear. The wave of cult-related killings is unsettling and demands urgent government intervention,” he said.
The lawmaker urged the state government, security agencies, and community vigilante groups to intensify surveillance and enforcement to track down cultists and restore order.
He also appealed for a state-wide sensitisation campaign to educate residents about the dangers of cultism and the consequences under the law.
Other members of the Assembly echoed Iyamu’s concerns and stressed the need for full enforcement of the anti-cultism law, including prosecution of suspects.
In response, Speaker Blessing Agbebaku ordered that official copies of the Assembly’s resolution be transmitted to the relevant authorities for prompt action.
In the same session, the Assembly passed two key bills:
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A law establishing the Edo State Public Private Partnership framework to enhance infrastructure development.
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A law creating the Edo State School of Nursing, Health Science and Technology, located in Udomi.
