Abia State Government has reiterated its zero-tolerance stance on cultism, warning that it will deal decisively with anyone involved in cult-related activities and violence.
The declaration comes in response to recent attempts by criminal elements to disrupt the peace in Aba through cult-related killings and terror attacks.
In a statement issued by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Ferdinand Ekeoma, the Government expressed dismay over the bold and provocative activities of cultists in some parts of the state.
It emphasized that upon assumption of office, the present administration swiftly tackled the menace of cultism and restored Security across Abia.
Describing the resurgence of cult-related violence in Aba as an “affront on the peace-loving people and government of Abia State,” the statement stressed that Security Agencies has been deployed to strategic locations, including streets, schools, and neighborhoods, to root out cultists and restore order.
The Government issued a stern warning to those engaging in cultism, declaring that the full force of the law would be unleashed on any individual or group found involved in such activities.
It also advised Parents and Guardians to caution their children and wards against joining cult groups, stating that offenders would face severe legal consequences.
The State Government reassured law-abiding citizens of their safety and encouraged them to report any suspicious activities or persons linked to cultism.
It urged Members of the public to provide relevant information through the following emergency contact numbers; Abia State Command Control Number: 0803 541 5405
Operation Crush Emergency Numbers: 09091141111, 09091131111.
The State Government reaffirmed its commitment to youth empowerment through impactful programs and advised those who have chosen to disrupt public peace to either leave the state or be ready to face the consequences of their actions.
The Statement urged residents to go about their lawful businesses without fear, as the Government remains resolute in ensuring their protection and maintaining a crime-free Abia State.
The Statement reads in full;
Abia State Government Has Zero Tolerance For Cultism
Abia State government has observed with dismay a bold but provocative attempt by some youths, especially in Aba to ignite the flame of terror and violence through cult-related activities and killings in the last few days.
On assumption of office, the government acted swiftly and nipped the activities of these cultists in the bud by clamping down on them in different parts of Abia and succeeded in restoring peace and security in the state.
The attempt by some criminals to rear their ugly heads and cause havoc in Aba under the guise of Cultism, is not only a daring provocation, but an affront on the peace-loving people and government of Abia State who are desirous of building and living in a peaceful and secure environment.
Government strongly condemns these lawless and criminal activities, and wishes to state as follows:
1. The government has zero tolerance for Cultism and other acts of criminality and violence that may have the propensity to endanger the lives and properties of innocent citizens.
2. Government shall descend with full force of the law on any person, persons or groups found indulging in any form of cultism and cult related activities in any part of Abia State.
3. Government has swiftly deployed security agents and intelligence officers to streets, schools, neighbourhoods and other places of gathering to smoke out cultists and other criminals creating an atmosphere of fear and terror in any part of the state.
4. While the government is striving to gainfully empower our teeming unemployed but responsible youths through some impactful programmes being rolled out, those who have decided to constitute themselves as agents of terror, are by this release enjoined to leave the state without further delay, or have themselves to blame.
5. Parents and guardians are strongly advised to call their children and wards to order, and discourage them from this path of destruction called Cultism, as those caught would be made to suffer severe consequences, according to the law.
6. Citizens are by this release enjoined to go about their legitimate businesses as government is determined to ensure their protection at all times..
7. Finally, members of the public are encouraged to report any person or persons involved in any form of cult related activities in any part of the state to the government for necessary disciplinary actions. To report any cultist, group of cultists or any facility that harbours cultists and other criminals in any part of the state, members of the public are enjoined to call or send a message to the following numbers:
