In a resolute declaration, the Ondo State Government under Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa reaffirmed its commitment to eradicating cultism and criminal violence, calling on all sectors of society to unite in the effort.
Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Olukayode Ajulo SAN, OON, stated that Governor Aiyedatiwa has directed urgent amendments to the state’s laws against cultism—expanding the list of banned groups, increasing penalties (including longer prison terms and potential death sentences for murders linked to cultism), and clarifying legal reach to include affiliates like family members and associates.
A new Governor’s Task Force Against Cultism has been launched to strengthen coordination with security agencies and streamline enforcement efforts across Ondo State.
Ondo State’s Police Commissioner, Wilfred Afolabi, has intensified operations against cult-related networks and drug peddling. He vowed to clear motor parks across local government areas of such criminal activity and integrate local vigilante groups, hunters, and community members into the operations.
In late May, 2025, police forces conducted a major intelligence-led raid resulting in the arrest of 46 suspected cultists in Ondo Town. This demonstrated the seriousness of the crackdown.
Nine suspects have since been prosecuted for charges including cultism, murder, and illegal firearms possession linked to recent violent clashes.
The Amotekun Corps, Ondo’s state security network, issued stern warnings about planned cult initiations around the symbolic date “7/7”, affirming zero tolerance for unlawful gatherings and commanding patrol units to prevent chaos.
The state appeals to citizens to embrace Omoluabi values—respect, dignity, hard work—and reject all forms of social vice including cultism, thuggery, and communal violence. Civic education campaigns are being rolled out across all 18 LGAs using traditional, religious, and digital platforms as mobilization tools.
Youth groups have joined the call: a recent rally in Ondo Town saw community leaders and youths pledge unity and justice. The rally also paid tribute to over 40 lives lost in cult-related killings and called on authorities to act decisively.
Traditional rulers have also taken symbolic action—such as the monarch of Owo placing curses on cultists and sponsors, denouncing political involvement in fueling cult violence, and urging communities to support law enforcement efforts.
Legal overhaul: Strengthens enforcement capacity, enabling harsher penalties, broader definitions, and greater deterrence.
Tactical enforcement: High-profile arrests and coordinated raids show execution of stated policy and resolve.
Public participation: Civic education and rallies foster community-level vigilance, accountability, and local ownership.
Unified front: Cooperation among government, police, traditional rulers, and youth groups amplifies impact.
Governance leaders emphasize that the eradication of cultism cannot be achieved by force alone. Success depends on sustained civic engagement—from community reporting and neighborhood peace groups to schools, faith institutions, and local influencers.
By weaving together legal reform, strong security action, and grassroots mobilization rooted in moral values, Ondo State aims to restore public safety and preserve its reputation as a state of dignity and disciplined progress.
