Cult-related violence, particularly in Rivers State, has deep-rooted social neglect, unemployment, political manipulation, and drug abuse. In Rivers State, rival cult factions like the Icelanders have frequently clashed over territorial control, often linked to oil bunkering, extortion, and local politics.
Speaking with our correspondent in Port Harcourt on the menace of cultism, and the need for urgent government intervention, a security consultant, Hon Chamberlain Nwogu, lamented that the growing insecurity caused by cult-related activities in Rivers State in particular and Nigeria in general undermines both human rights and
economic stability.
Hon, Nwaiwu stressed that civilians, particularly, women and children, became the primary victims, traumatized, displayed and often caught in cross-fire, noting that the inaction from authorities of government should foster a culture of impunity.
On government immediate intervention, Hon Chamberlain Nwogu declared that an emergency security zone with coordinated police and military presence is needed to quell the heat of cult-related activities and violence. He further said that dismantling networks through intelligence operations was imperative on the part of the government and other stakeholders.
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Hon, Nwaiwu also maintained that empowering local traditional and religious leaders to meditate on the best way of curbing the excesses of cult clashes , both in Rivers State and Nigeria in general, calls for urgent response from government at all levels, including stakeholders.
The security expert said that launching an amnesty programme for cult members who are willing to renounce such scourge should be put in place. On youth empowerment hubs, Hon Chamberlain Nwogu demanded the establishment of technological, agriculture, and skills acquisition centres in conflict prone Local Government Areas.
He however, pointed out that the quick response and provision of micro-grants and mentorship for small businesses can help reduce to the barest minimum, if not, completely eradicate the violence.
Hon Nwogu, therefore, appealed to the government at all levels, to massively implement aggressive sensitization campaigns in schools, churches and public places for ensuring peace and harmonious relationship between the people and the government to continue to thrive in the country.
