The Edo State Government has vowed to end the scourge of cultism in the state by launching a campaign project, (Resist Initiation, Securing Education).

The campaign, organised by the Office of the Senior Special Assistant on Special Duty to Governor Monday Okpebholo, aims to redirect the energy of Edo youth toward positive pathways rooted in education, skills acquisition, and civic engagement.

According to a statement released on Friday by the Senior Special Assistant on Special Duty to the governor, Uriesi Alex, said; “This is more than a campaign — it is a movement to rescue the future of our youth. Cultism has robbed too many young people of their potential. Through Project RISE, we are pushing back — loud and clear — that Edo youth deserve better.”

Alex, while in attendance at the Swedish Embassy in Abuja to commemorate Sweden’s National Day, officially introduce the project.

According to him, Project RISE is a multi-platform, statewide campaign that will leverage television, radio, university media outlets, social media, community channels, and print publications to drive sustained anti-cultism awareness and youth empowerment messaging.

He held productive discussions with Swedish Ambassador to Nigeria, Her Excellency Annika Hahn-Englund, and other high-ranking officials about the growing need for international support and collaboration to combat cult-related violence, which has plagued young people in the state.

While Sweden was celebrating its independence and rich national heritage, I felt it was also a meaningful opportunity to introduce Project RISE — a campaign designed to safeguard the youth of Edo State by resisting cultism and promoting access to safe, quality education,” he said.

Alex said the campaign will also engage university media outlets, student groups, and youth influencers to ensure deep grassroots impact.

The statement added, “Project RISE will be collaborating with the Nigeria Police Force Anti-Cultism Unit and the Department of State Services (DSS) to educate youth on the legal and life-threatening consequences of cult involvement. In addition, the initiative provides alternative routes for young people through vocational training, mentorship programs, and expanded access to educational opportunities.

“Project RISE aligns with the state’s reinforced legal stance against cultism, following the passage of the Edo State Anti-Cultism Law in January 2025, which mandates 15 to 21 years imprisonment for individuals convicted of cult-related crimes.

“The campaign underscores Governor Okpebholo’s zero-tolerance policy on cultism and his administration’s unwavering commitment to the safety and future of Edo’s youth.”

https://punchng.com/edo-pledges-to-combat-cultism-empower-youths/