The Owo Concerned Group in Ondo State has blamed parental negligence and political sponsorship for the increase in cult conflicts in the Owo region. Following a gathering of stakeholders over the weekend, the group called on politicians to stop supporting violence and escalating local issues.
A politician, a woman, and her child were among the five people killed in recent cult battles, as you may remember. In response, Owo’s state governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, enforced a curfew to stop the violence caused by cult group supremacy disputes.
Eight accused have been arraigned by the Ondo State Police Command in an Akure Chief Magistrates’ Court in relation to the murders. Olabode Ojo, also known as “Popo,” (30), Adeola Bero (30), Olayemi Ayodele (20), Ijalade Femi, Ijarotimi Taye (42), Ogunseyila Oladimeji (28), and two sisters, Bisi Gbenga (25) and Esther Gbenga (20), are among the accused. Conspiracy, cultism, murder, unlawful firearm possession, and unlawful possession of stolen cars are among the five charges against them.
Comrades Odunayo Folahanmi, Hussein Taye Aliyu, and Damilare Aina signed a communiqué following the summit in which the group named parental failure and political sponsorship as the main causes of the violence in Owo.
Political Patronage: According to the group, Owo Local Government’s lawlessness has been greatly increased by politicians who aid and encourage cultists.
Parental Neglect: Hooliganism and cult-related activities have been made worse by inadequate parental supervision and accountability.
Traditional Leadership: In order to protect the peace and advancement of Owo Kingdom, the communique called on traditional leaders to promote cooperation and togetherness.
In order to address the crisis, the summit proposed a number of concrete resolutions, including: Politicians must immediately cease aiding and abetting cultists and criminal elements in Owo Kingdom.
Religious and spiritual leaders are urged to advocate for forgiveness and reconciliation as cornerstones of community development.
Security measures include banning the use of cross-body bags, which have been identified as cultists’ mobile armories,
Ban on unofficial street gatherings, or “junction-by-junction assemblies,” in order to reduce delinquency.
Youth Engagement: Unite existing youth groups into a single entity to represent Owo Kingdom’s youth constituency.
Parental Responsibility: Parents have a duty to keep a close eye on and mentor their children, stressing the risks of criminal activity and cultism.
Biannual Security Engagements: To evaluate and enhance Owo’s security condition, establish stakeholders’ security summits as a regular occurrence.
Community Recognition: Put in place systems to acknowledge those that elevate Owo Kingdom’s standing and dignity.
Anti-Cultism Knowledge: Plan a public demonstration calling for a zero-tolerance policy against gangsterism, cultism, and other social vices.
The meeting also demanded that police stop extorting innocent citizens and making arbitrary arrests.
The need of group accountability in tackling Owo’s security issues was underlined by the stakeholders. According to the communiqué:
“The resolutions articulated herein aim to galvanize all stakeholders towards restoring peace, security, and socio-economic progress in Owo Local Government.”
Dr. Olaide Adelami, the deputy governor of Ondo State, was present at the summit through Dr. Kolawole, his chief of staff.
Traditional leaders from Owo Local Government areas.
Leaders in the fields of spirituality and religion, youth, trade associations, student unions, and the general public.
In order to eradicate the threat and promote a peaceful, safe, and prosperous Owo Kingdom, the group expressed hope that the resolutions would set a long-term course.