HURIWA HAILS OKPEBHOLO FOR TAKING BOLD STAND AGAINST CULTISM
The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has applauded Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State for his unflinching resolve to combat cultism and related violence, calling his administration a model for others across the country.
In a statement issued in Abuja, HURIWA said Okpebholo’s crackdown on cult groups—some of which are allegedly connected to the political elite—demonstrates rare courage and political will.
“It is rare to see any governor in Nigeria today tackle cultism head-on, because a significant number of political office holders are deeply entangled in cult-related affiliations,” HURIWA stated, estimating that as many as 75 percent of elected officials may have such ties.
The rights group urged other governors to follow Edo’s example and called for the enactment of stiffer penalties, including capital punishment, for cultists convicted of murder or ritual killings. It also emphasized that groups registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission must uphold lawful conduct or face sanctions.
