Edo Youth Parliament Speaker Decries Rising Cultism, Applauds Gov Okpebholo's Intervention

Fawaz Muhammad, the Speaker of the Edo State Youth Parliament, has issued a strong condemnation of the escalating cult-related violence and kidnapping incidents in the state. He praised the state government for its swift and decisive measures in addressing these security challenges.

In a statement released on Tuesday to South-South PUNCH, Muhammad applauded Governor Monday Okpebholo’s Project RISE (Resist Initiation, Securing Education) — an initiative focused on combating cultism through law enforcement, education, and youth empowerment.

He stressed the need for security agencies to intensify operations targeting cult groups and networks. Additionally, he urged traditional rulers, religious leaders, and civil society organisations to amplify awareness and advocacy against cultism.

Speaking directly to the youth, Muhammad encouraged them to reject any recruitment efforts, report threats, and commit to a life of peace and purposeful engagement.

His statement read in part:

“The alarming rise in cult-related violence, kidnappings, and insecurity across Edo State poses a grave threat to peace, youth development, and the future of our communities. I commend Governor Okpebholo’s Project RISE as a proactive step towards tackling this crisis. All stakeholders must rally behind this initiative to restore peace in our streets, campuses, and neighbourhoods.”

He emphasized that the Edo State Youth Parliament fully supports any genuine efforts aimed at eradicating cultism and restoring safety to the state, affirming: