The Edo State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has commended Governor Monday Okpebholo for his intensified efforts to combat cultism across the state, describing the ongoing clampdown as essential for restoring law and order.
This commendation was issued in a communique released following the council's monthly congress held at the NUJ secretariat in Benin City. The union emphasized that the governor's initiative is crucial for safeguarding the lives and property of citizens.
"The congress also lauded the State government's commitment to curbing cultism and urged that the momentum be sustained to guarantee lasting peace and sanity in Edo communities," the communique stated.
Concerns Over Youth Leaders' Conduct
Beyond praising the anti-cultism efforts, the NUJ raised significant concerns regarding the conduct of some youth leaders, locally known as Okaigheles. These individuals are allegedly collecting excessive charges from land developers under the guise of community development initiatives.
The union warned that such practices could potentially deter prospective investors and undermine the state government's broader objectives for urban growth and infrastructural development in Edo State.
Governor Okpebholo's administration has been taking decisive steps against cultism since assuming office, with the NUJ's endorsement highlighting the positive reception these security measures have received from professional bodies in the state.
The governor's focus on security comes at a critical time when many Nigerian states are grappling with various forms of insecurity, making the Edo initiative particularly noteworthy in the national context.
Follow BenriNews on social media for more updates:
