By Rosemary Okoduwa
A 29 year old aspiring musician has renounced his membership of a cult group and voluntarily surrendered a Beretta pistol to security authorities in Edo State, in a development described as a boost to the state’s fight against cultism.
According to a statement signed by Dr. Patrick Akhere Ebojele, Chief Press Secretary to the Edo State Governor, the Zonal Commander of the Edo State Security Corps, Joel Aidamebor, disclosed the development while briefing journalists in Benin City on Friday.
Aidamebor said the incident began after the Acting Chairman of Esan West Local Government Area, Hon. Blessing Ebhodaghe, reported suspicious activity at a school near his residence. Security operatives responded alongside the police, arrested several youths for questioning and later released some after investigations.
He said Ebhodaghe subsequently met with the youths and urged them to shun cultism and other criminal activities. Moved by the appeal, one of the youths approached the chairman, announced his decision to abandon cultism and voluntarily surrendered a Beretta pistol, which was later handed over to the police.
Aidamebor commended the young man’s decision and urged other cult members to embrace lawful living. He also reaffirmed the Edo State Government’s commitment under Governor Monday Okpebholo to tackling cultism, kidnapping, armed robbery and other violent crimes.
Confirming the development, Ebhodaghe appealed to youths involved in cult activities to turn a new leaf and embrace a better future.
The 29 year old said he decided to quit cultism after reflecting on Ebhodaghe’s message on the dangers of the practice. He explained that he refused to sell or hand over the pistol because he feared it could be used for crimes that might be traced to him. He added that Governor Monday Okpebholo encouraged him to use his experience to inspire other youths to abandon cultism and pursue legitimate livelihoods, including his music career.
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