48 Cultists Surrender Arms To Police In Ogun
The amnesty program for members of various cult groups in Ogun State has been initiated by the Ogun State Police Command, resulting in 48 cultists renouncing their membership.
The state Commissioner of Police, Abiodun Alamutu, made this announcement in the Sagamu area of the state. The surrendered arms and ammunition were displayed at the palace of the
Akarigbo of Remoland, Oba Adewale Ajayi.
Alamutu emphasized the importance of not discriminating against those who have chosen to leave their past behind and start anew. However, he also cautioned that anyone apprehended after the
designated period for denouncement would be treated as a criminal.
During the official handover of these illegal firearms to the police at the Akarigbo Palace, Alamutu explained that the olive branch extended to cultists aimed to provide them with a second chance
to become law-abiding citizens and actively contribute to peaceful coexistence in the state.
“The olive branch we are extending to these cultists is a product of several engagements. We all know the problem we have had in the past with frequent cult clashes causing loss of lives in
Sagamu,” Alamutu said.
He added: “And working with the government and traditional rulers, we kicked off this process whereby the cultists will come forward to denounce their membership and submit any firearms
with them without any punitive measures.
“This is in line with the directive from the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, who has ordered that illicit firearms should be mopped up, even those who have their licenses are
encouraged to return theirs too.
“We urged the cultists in the state to embrace this golden opportunity; many of them already are aware that cultism does not pay, so they should come and lay down their weapons because
anyone caught when this window is closed will be treated as a common criminal.”
In a previous statement, the Akarigbo and paramount ruler of Remo land expressed his dissatisfaction with the violence and disruption caused by these cultists within the town.
The community took proactive measures to counteract their activities, resulting in significant pressure that compelled some of them to flee. However, despite their departure, they persistently
plead and send representatives, expressing their willingness to change their ways.
“We have engaged them and told them point blank that cultism is not the way forward, that they will only ruin their lives, ruin their family names and the plans of God for their lives.”
The king expressed his gratitude to Governor Dapo Abiodun, the security forces, and the Sagamu Security Committee for their tireless efforts in securing the success of the amnesty agreement for
the ex-cult members.
