OKPEBHOLO CLAIMS EDO CULT KILLINGS HAVE DROPPED TO ALMOST ZERO FROM OVER 300 ANNUALLY

By NaijaParrot October 13, 2026 

 BENIN CITY, EDO STATE —

Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has claimed that cult-related killings in the state have dropped to almost zero, compared with more than 300 deaths recorded annually before his administration took office in November 2024. The governor made the statement on Monday, October 12, during a mass cult renunciation and denunciation programme held at the Sir Victor Uwaifo Creative Hub on Airport Road, Benin City. The event, themed “Restitution, Rehabilitation and Safer Edo State,” was organised to encourage young people to abandon cult groups and embrace lawful living.

Speaking at the event, Okpebholo attributed the reported reduction in cult-related killings to stronger laws, improved intelligence gathering and intensified security operations. He said his administration had stepped up efforts to dismantle criminal networks responsible for cult violence, kidnapping and armed robbery. The governor also claimed that kidnapping incidents had declined as security agencies intensified operations to protect residents and communities across the state.  

Okpebholo warned individuals who remain involved in cult activities that his government would continue to pursue those responsible for criminal offences. He urged members of cult groups to renounce their affiliations and take advantage of the rehabilitation opportunities provided by the state government. “We are offering genuine opportunities for rehabilitation and ensuring that your past does not define your future,” the governor said. However, he warned that those who continued to engage in criminal activities would face the full consequences of the law. He also said the government could order the demolition of buildings established or used for cult-related activities. 

 The programme witnessed the public renunciation of cult membership by more than 100 youths, according to reports. The governor commended those who participated, describing their decision as an opportunity to protect their lives, support their families and contribute positively to society. Officials at the event said rehabilitation and reintegration were important parts of the state’s strategy to discourage young people from returning to cult activities. The Edo State Police Commissioner, Patrick Daaor, also commended the initiative, saying efforts to persuade young people to abandon cultism could help save lives and reduce violence. 

 Although Okpebholo said cult-related killings had fallen to almost zero, the reports reviewed did not provide independent statistics to verify the claimed reduction. Premium Times reported that the governor did not present supporting figures for the claim at the event. The statement therefore represents the governor’s assessment of his administration’s security efforts, rather than an independently confirmed finding that cult-related killings have virtually stopped across Edo State. 

  Cult-related violence has remained a major security concern in Edo State, with killings, rival-group clashes and other criminal activities affecting communities over the years. The state government’s latest initiative combines security enforcement with rehabilitation, encouraging young people to leave cult groups while warning that criminal activities will attract legal consequences. Whether the reported decline reaches the level claimed by the governor will require continued monitoring and reliable security data. NaijaParrot will continue to follow developments in Edo State’s campaign against cultism, kidnapping and other violent crimes. 

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