Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has officially signed the Secret Cult and Similar Activities Prohibition Bill, 2025, into law. The new legislation, which took effect on January 24, 2025, introduces stricter punishments for cult-related crimes and replaces the Edo State Secret Cult Prohibition Law, 2018.
The Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Fred Itua, confirmed this development in a statement released in Benin City. He noted that the law includes severe penalties for individuals involved in cultism, including sponsors, members, and those who support such activities in any form.
One of the key provisions of the law is the imposition of the death penalty on individuals found guilty of killing in connection with cult-related activities. Additionally, those who finance or provide material support for cultism face a mandatory 21-year prison sentence if convicted.
The law also holds property owners accountable. Allowing a property to be used for cult activities or harboring cultists now attracts a 10-year prison sentence. Furthermore, any property linked to cult operations is subject to demolition.
Itua, in his statement, said:
“This new law provides for 21 years imprisonment for individuals who financially or materially sponsor cultism; 10 years imprisonment and property demolition for those who harbor cultists or allow their property to be used for cult-related activities; 21 years imprisonment for cultists involved in assault, injury, or property destruction, and death penalty for those responsible for killings in furtherance of cult activities.
“These measures are not intended to intimidate law-abiding citizens but rather to serve as a strong deterrent to those who have chosen to endanger the peace and security of Edo State,” Itua said.
“This law is not just about punishment—it is about protecting lives and securing the future of Edo State. Cult activities have robbed many young people of their potential, turning them into instruments of violence rather than contributors to society. With this legislation, Edo people are taking Edo State back from the hands of criminals and ensuring that families, businesses, and communities can thrive without fear.
“The demolition and confiscation of properties linked to cult activities is a deliberate move to ensure that crime does not pay. Those who aid and abet cultism will no longer have a hiding place in Edo State. The Government is sending a clear message: Edo State is for law-abiding citizens, not for criminals,” he said.
