LSSTF Warns YABATECH Freshers: Say No To Cult!sm, Drugs

Thousands of newly admitted students of Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) have been cautioned against engaging in cultism, drug abuse, cybercrime, and other social vices that could negatively impact their academic progress and future prospects.

The warning was delivered during the institution’s orientation programme for fresh students, where representatives of the Lagos State Security Trust Fund’s Campaign Against Crime, Cultism and Other Vices (LSSTF-CACCOV) educated students on the importance of making responsible life choices.

Speaking at the event, the Coordinator of LSSTF-CACCOV, Dr. Moses Oladimeji, encouraged the students to remain focused on their studies and personal growth while avoiding negative influences that could derail their ambitions. He warned against joining cult groups and criminal networks, recounting the tragic experience of a former student whose life was reportedly cut short after becoming involved in cult-related activities.

Oladimeji noted that criminal groups often attract young people with promises of protection, influence, and financial rewards, but stressed that such associations frequently end in regret and tragedy. He urged the students to steer clear of cultism, drug abuse, cybercrime, sexual violence, and other activities capable of destroying their future.

To inspire the students, he cited the success story of the Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the Lagos State Security Trust Fund, Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan, a YABATECH alumnus who rose from humble beginnings through discipline, hard work, and dedication to education. According to him, Ogunsan’s achievements demonstrate that success is attainable through perseverance and commitment to positive values.

The Dean of Students Affairs, Alhaji Alaba Olalekan, explained that the orientation programme was organised to help students adjust to campus life and better understand the responsibilities associated with higher education. He reiterated the institution’s strict stance against cultism, drug abuse, and other forms of misconduct, warning that such behaviours have ruined countless lives and opportunities.

Also speaking at the event, the President of the YABATECH Alumni Association, Builder Yemi Osibajo, praised the collaboration between the institution and LSSTF-CACCOV in raising awareness about the dangers of crime and cult-related activities. He attributed the increasing involvement of some youths in criminal behaviour to peer pressure and the desire for extravagant lifestyles, urging the students to remain committed to the purpose of their admission.

Osibajo reminded the fresh students that they were admitted to acquire knowledge and contribute positively to society, cautioning them against individuals who may attempt to lure them into destructive activities. He further described Ogunsan’s accomplishments as evidence of YABATECH’s legacy of producing accomplished graduates and a reflection of the rewards that come with discipline, focus, and resilience.

The orientation programme forms part of ongoing efforts by YABATECH and LSSTF-CACCOV to promote safety, responsible conduct, and academic excellence among students while discouraging behaviours that could undermine their future aspirations.