Nigeria: 48 repentant cultists surrender arms in Ogun
By Zuleihat Owuiye, Mamos Nigeria
In a significant development, 48 repentant cultists in the Sagamu area of Ogun State have surrendered their weapons to the Nigeria Police Force. These individuals have renounced their membership in the various cult groups they were previously associated with. The surrender ceremony, which took place at the Palace of the Akarigbo of Remoland, was attended by local authorities and law enforcement officials.
Earlier this year, two prominent cult groups, Neo Black Movement (popularly known as Aye) and the National Association of Airlords (also known as Eiye Confraternity), wrote letters of apology to the Akarigbo of Remoland, expressing remorse for their actions and seeking forgiveness from the community. The groups pledged to abide by the laws of the country and turn away from their previous activities.
The weapons turned in by the repentant cultists include one pump-action gun, four double-barrel guns, seven single-barrel guns, two English pistols, four locally made pistols, and 35 cartridges. This gesture symbolizes their commitment to embracing a new path and leaving behind their violent past.
During the ceremony, the Commissioner of Police in Ogun State, Abiodun Alamutu, emphasized the police force’s approach of moral persuasion in dealing with the cult crisis. He commended the cultists for renouncing their membership and surrendering their arms, urging them to stay committed to their decision. The police force, in collaboration with the Ogun State government and traditional rulers, plans to establish an Anti-Cultism Vanguard consisting of these repentant cultists. The aim is to use their experiences to advocate against cultism and discourage others from engaging in such activities.
The Akarigbo of Remoland, Oba Adewale Ajayi, expressed his satisfaction with the outcome of the engagement and discussions held with the repentant cultists. He emphasized the negative consequences of cultism and the importance of embracing peace and community integration. Oba Ajayi thanked Governor Dapo Abiodun, security agencies, and the Sagamu Security Committee for their efforts in ensuring the success of the amnesty deal.
In light of these developments, it is crucial for the community to support and accept the repentant cultists. Rather than treating them as outcasts, the residents should show them love and understanding. This ongoing process of reintegration into society serves as a lesson for other cultists in Remoland and across Ogun State.
