In a significant turn of events, 48 repentant cultists in the Sagamu area of Ogun State have relinquished their weapons to the Nigeria Police Force, signaling their departure from various cult groups they were affiliated with.
The ceremony, aimed at documenting the repentance of the cultists and accounting for the surrendered arms, took place at the Palace of the Akarigbo of Remoland, Oba Adewale Ajayi, in the Sagamu Local Government Area.
Earlier reports by PUNCH Metro in January had highlighted the initiative where two cult groups, Neo Black Movement (Aye) and the National Association of Airlords (Eiye Confraternity) of Sagamu chapter, tendered apology letters to the Akarigbo of Remoland, seeking forgiveness for their past actions and pledging adherence to the nation’s laws.
Weapons voluntarily turned in by the repentant cultists included firearms like one pump-action gun, four double-barrels, seven single-barrels, two English pistols, four locally made pistols, and 35 cartridges.
Addressing the gathering, Ogun State’s Commissioner of Police, Abiodun Alamutu, commended the police’s strategy of moral persuasion, which led to the cultists renouncing their memberships and surrendering their arms.
Alamutu emphasized the importance of the cultists maintaining their newfound path while also announcing plans for collaboration with the state government and traditional rulers to integrate them into an Anti-Cultism Vanguard. This group aims to educate others about the perils of cultism still prevalent in the region.
Reflecting on the process, Oba Ajayi expressed satisfaction with the amnesty granted to the cultists, noting extensive engagements where many expressed remorse for their past actions and embraced the opportunity for a fresh start.
The monarch stressed the detrimental effects of cultism on individuals and society, urging the community to embrace and support the reformed cultists rather than ostracize them. He credited Governor Dapo Abiodun, security agencies, and the Sagamu Security Committee for their concerted efforts in facilitating the success of the amnesty program.
