Benin City | Hobnob News — In a bold move to stem the tide of violent crime and restore lasting peace in Edo State, Governor Monday Okpebholo has announced a sweeping amnesty programme for cultists, offering them a chance to renounce their past, surrender illegal arms, and embrace a new life through skill acquisition and empowerment.
The announcement was made in a statement issued on Wednesday by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua.
“I am offering a window of restitution for cult members to turn a new leaf,” Governor Okpebholo declared. “Those in possession of illegal arms and ammunition must surrender them to authorities in exchange for full amnesty.”
Empowerment Over Violence
As part of the initiative, the state government will establish a technical committee to oversee the disarmament, reintegration, and rehabilitation of cultists and criminally minded youths.
“A major part of this amnesty is skills acquisition and economic empowerment,” the governor explained. “We want these young people to be productive members of society, not threats to it.”
Reclaiming Communities and Rebuilding Hope
Governor Okpebholo also pledged support for community leaders working to restore peace in violence-prone areas such as Oko-Oroma, Amagba, and Obagie, which have recently witnessed surges in cult-related clashes.
“We are serious about restoring security, especially as we embark on developing a new city in the state,” he said.
Cultism: A Billion-Dollar Threat
The governor revealed that cult-related violence costs Edo State over $1 billion in lost investments annually, a figure he described as both “alarming and unsustainable.”
In recent weeks, the state has intensified its crackdown on cultism. Governor Okpebholo personally supervised the demolition of buildings linked to cult activities, while the state police command continues to arrest suspected cultists in targeted operations.
A Final Call for Redemption
Okpebholo’s message is clear: the door is open for peace — but it won’t stay open forever.
“This is a rare opportunity to choose a better path. The government is ready to help, but the choice rests with those who must decide whether to embrace change or face the full weight of the law.”
Stay connected with Hobnob News for real-time updates on the amnesty programme and developments in Edo State’s ongoing fight against cultism.
