…mulls amnesty
Segun Ayinde, Abeokuta
Ogun State Government is set to establish a special court to try cult related cases.
It plans to create a Joint Anti-Cultism Security Task Force comprising all major security outfits to rid the state of the menace of cultism.
The Government is also proposing an amnesty programme for would-be cultists who may wish to surrender their weapons.
These were made known at after a joint security meeting, held at the Governor’s Office, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, Ogun State on yesterday
Recalled that Governor Dapo Abiodun on Tuesday hinted that his administration would enact a law that would pronounce the death penalty on anyone caught engaging in cult activities in the state.
He stated this during a visit to the palace of the Akarigbo of Remoland, Oba Babatunde Ajayi, following days of cult-related clashes in Sagamu, which left many dead and others injured.
Abiodun said the meeting focused on establishing special court, forming joint operational security agencies in order to provide adequate measures to eradicate cultism in the Gateway State.
He said: “During the Joint Security meeting that took place today, we engaged in fruitful discussions regarding the implementation of measures aimed at combating cultism in Ogun State.
“Our primary focus was on establishing a special court, forming a joint operational force comprising various security agencies, and implementing a death penalty for cultism offences.
“In addition to these measures, we also deliberated on the possibility of introducing a period of amnesty. This would allow individuals who wish to surrender their weapons and renounce their affiliation with any cult-related groups and activities the opportunity to do so without fear of prosecution.
“As an administration deeply committed to fostering a peaceful and violence-free society, we are dedicated to providing the Special Court and Joint Anti-Cultism Security Task Force with the necessary logistics and tools to support their operations effectively.
“The overall objective of our conversation is to address the issue of cultism through a multifaceted approach. This will include legal and enforcement measures, rehabilitation efforts, and community engagement through our respected traditional leaders.
