New anti-cult law prescribes stiffer penalties for violators – Edo govt
Quick Read
Section 12 of the Law clearly states that, “Any person being a cultist under Section 4, who assaults, injures, maim, or kills any person(s) or destroy any property in furtherance of the activities of any Secret Cult, is guilty of an offence and is liable to Twenty-One (21) years of imprisonment without an option of fine and in the case of any fatality, the perpetrator(s) shall be liable to death upon conviction and any properties in his name as well as his place of residence shall be confiscated and demolished by the State Government," the statement said. The government therefore advised people of the state to be guided and desist from acts inimical to the peace, growth and development of the State.
By Jethro Ibileke
The Edo State Government has explained the difference between the newly-signed Secret Cult and Similar Activities (Prohibition) Law, 2025 and the one signed into law by former Governor Godwin Obaseki in 2018.
The Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor, in a statement on Friday, explained that the new law stipulates stiffer penalties for any persons who infracted the law.
“It is hereby announced for the information of the General Public that the Edo State Secret Cult (Prohibition Law) 2018 has been repealed by the Edo State House of Assembly.
“By virtue of the repeal, the Secret Cult and Similar Activities (Prohibition) Law, 2025 has been passed by the Edo State House of Assembly and signed into law by the Governor of the State, His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebhoio effective from 24th January, 2025.
“Please, be informed that in the new Law, there is provision for stiffer penalties for anyone found guilty of secret cult related offences in the State.
“Section 5 of the Law provides for twenty-one (21) years imprisonment for financial and material sponsors of secret cults.
“Section 6 of the Law provides for ten (10) years imprisonment for those who knowingly habour members of a secret cult or permit a secret cult meeting or activities to be held in house, building or place over which they have control.
“In addition to the ten (10) years imprisonment, such persons will have their properties confiscated and demolished by the State Government.
“Section 12 of the Law clearly states that, “Any person being a cultist under Section 4, who assaults, injures, maim, or kills any person(s) or destroy any property in furtherance of the activities of any Secret Cult, is guilty of an offence and is liable to Twenty-One (21) years of imprisonment without an option of fine and in the case of any fatality, the perpetrator(s) shall be liable to death upon conviction and any properties in his name as well as his place of residence shall be confiscated and demolished by the State Government,” the statement said.
The government therefore advised people of the state to be guided and desist from acts inimical to the peace, growth and development of the State.
Comments