About 40 youths in Abini community, Biase Local Government Area of Cross River State, have renounced their membership of cult groups and pledged to pursue peaceful and lawful lives.
The youths made the commitment at a sensitisation and engagement programme organised by the Cross River State Police Command in partnership with the Abini Elites Association and the LauraHope Foundation.
The programme brought together community leaders, security personnel and civil society representatives, who welcomed the youths’ decision to abandon cult-related activities.
During the event, the former cult members publicly denounced their affiliations, signed peace undertakings and pledged to stay away from violence, criminality and other unlawful activities.
They also apologised to members of their communities and promised to encourage other young people to reject cultism.
A community leader, Ukam Uno, described the development as an important step towards restoring peace in parts of the state.
He called on the government and other stakeholders to support the youths through skills acquisition and empowerment programmes to reduce the risk of them returning to cult activities.
“This is a major step towards restoring peace in our communities. The youths should be supported with skills and empowerment opportunities so that they can build legitimate livelihoods,” Uno said.
He commended the youths for responding to calls for peace but warned that the community would take action against anyone who returned to cult-related activities.
The Cross River State Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Sunday Eitokpah, said the initiative was part of the command’s community-based approach to preventing crime.
According to him, the exercise was undertaken as part of the proactive strategy of the Commissioner of Police, Ajo Geoffrey Ordue, to address insecurity through community engagement.
Eitokpah said, “About 40 youths associated with the Vikings, Klans and Axemen cults in Abini Community, in the Biase Local Government Area, renounced their membership and pledged to embrace peaceful and law-abiding lifestyles.”
He urged the youths to remain committed to their decision and become positive influences in their communities.
The police spokesperson further encouraged other young people to reject criminal groups and support initiatives aimed at promoting peace, security and development.
