Crime and social development experts have called for deliberate, collaborative efforts by government, communities and other stakeholders to tackle cultism in Nigeria, describing the menace as a major social problem with far-reaching economic, physical and psychological consequences.
The call was made during a discussion on the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) programme, Good Morning Nigeria, which examined pathways to eliminating cultism across the country.
Speaking on the programme, Professor Abiodun Adeniyi, Registrar of Baze University, Abuja, said cultism continues to inflict deep trauma on individuals, families and communities, while also undermining social stability and economic development.
“Cultism is not just a criminal issue; it is a social problem that results in significant economic losses and causes lasting physical and psychological harm to victims and their communities,” Adeniyi said.
He noted that cult groups are often exploited for socio-political and economic purposes, worsening insecurity and youth violence.
Also contributing, Paul Inyambe, a youth advocate and social crusader, stressed that addressing cultism requires more than law enforcement action, calling for preventive and rehabilitative approaches.
“Cultism is negatively deployed for various socio-political and economic gains. To end it, we must focus on moral education, guidance and counselling, and sustained community engagement,” Inyambe said.
The discussants recommended a multi-layered strategy that includes strengthened moral education, effective guidance and counselling in schools, active community participation, collaboration with law enforcement agencies, and structured rehabilitation and reintegration programmes for former cultists.
They further emphasised the need for synergy between communities and governments at all levels to prevent the spread of cultism and provide support for those affected by cult-related violence.
“Ending cultism requires collective responsibility. Government cannot do it alone; communities, families, schools and security agencies must work together to achieve lasting solutions,” the experts agreed.
