Shadows of Cultism

Cultism has long plagued Nigeria’s South East region, and in recent years, Anambra State has become a hotspot for violent cult clashes. Cult groups, once confined to campuses, have spilt over into communities, wreaking havoc through organised crime, political manipulation, and territorial battles. According to the Nextier Violent Conflicts Database, between September 2023 – September 2024, there were six cult clashes in the South East, with Anambra recording four incidents. Anambra State, with its cities like Onitsha and Awka, has witnessed disturbing incidences of cult-related violence. Cult groups often engage in turf wars, resulting in the deaths of their members and innocent bystanders. The allure of power, quick money, and protection draws in many unemployed and vulnerable youths, making the state a hotbed of criminal activity.

Cultists have recently tightened their grip over Awka and its surrounds, with confrontations between opposing factions killing over 20 people since Easter Sunday of 2024. Additionally, these areas are located near the Governor’s Lodge and the operational headquarters of the Anambra State Police Command. Still, the culprits have maintained their murdering spree with little pushback from security personnel. The attack in Awka South Local Government Area is a stark reminder of the persistent danger posed by cultism in Anambra. On October 20, 2024, a gang of suspected cultists opened fire on a rival group at a restaurant, which led to the death of 15 people and others severely injured. Police reports suggest that a rivalry between two cult factions sparked the fight. The incident has sent shockwaves through the state and the country, raising concerns about the state government’s ability to contain the spiralling violence. In another incident in May 2024, suspected cultists gunned down one person at a filling station at Aroma roundabout, and the following morning, a repeat of the incident occurred in the same area. Reports revealed the incident stemmed from a battle for control.

The Awka South cult clash is not an isolated incident but part of a broader security crisis in Anambra State. Over the last few years, the state has been grappling with various forms of violent crime, including kidnappings, armed robbery, and political thuggery, often fuelled by cult-related activities. Cult members frequently engage in extortion, harassing local businesses, market traders, and transport operators. The cyclical violence between rival groups has created a climate of fear and insecurity, particularly in urban areas like Awka, Onitsha, and Nnewi. Anambra’s status as a commercial hub makes it particularly vulnerable to crimes. Extortion of money from businesses and kidnapping of individuals are common occurrences, with cult members playing key roles in these criminal enterprises. With cult groups operating with relative impunity, the safety of the state’s residents has been jeopardised, forcing many communities to resort to local vigilantes.

The Anambra State government, under the leadership of Governor Charles Soludo, has repeatedly pledged to tackle the menace of cultism and restore peace to the state. In the wake of the Awka South incident, the state government condemned the violence and vowed to bring the perpetrators to justice. Also, security forces in Anambra, including the Nigerian Police Force, the military, and local vigilante groups, have been actively working to curb cult activities. In the past, police raids led to the arrest of suspected cult members and the confiscation of weapons. Despite these efforts, cult-related violence has persisted, with some attributing the problem to the deep entrenchment of cultism in the political and socio-economic fabric of the state.

A major challenge in addressing cultism is the alleged collusion between some political elites and cult groups. During election periods, politicians have been known to hire cultists as thugs, offering protection in exchange for violent services. This political patronage not only emboldens cult members but also makes it difficult for law enforcement agencies to dismantle their operations effectively.

In response to the worsening security situation, the government has encouraged the formation of community vigilante groups to assist formal security forces. These groups have played a crucial role in curbing minor crimes and maintaining order in areas where the police presence is limited. Community leaders and civil society organisations have also called for a more holistic approach to combating cultism, emphasising the need to address the root causes of the problem. Poverty and unemployment are often cited as key drivers of cult membership. Without providing alternative livelihood pathways for youth, efforts to stem the tide of cultism will be short-lived. The recent cult clash in Awka South reminds us of Anambra State’s security challenges. As cult groups continue to wield power and instil fear, the government must intensify its efforts to root out these criminal elements. Beyond punitive measures, there is a pressing need for long-term solutions that address the socio-economic factors driving youth into cultism.