Cultism: A Path to Destruction, By Dare Eluyemi

A secret cult is an organization where individuals come together, pledging their allegiances under oath and forming a social bond of commitment and dedication to the group’s objectives. These activities are shrouded in secrecy, hence the name “secret cult,” hidden from the rest of society or non-members.

Some young people join these groups to gain notoriety, instill fear, and amass wealth. It is believed that cult members often have wealthy and influential sponsors, making membership an avenue to connect with affluent individuals in the country.

Many youths, including students, are lured into secret cults by their thirst for power and authority. This is particularly prevalent among those who aim to fight for their rights. In Nigerian society, the primary motivation for joining a cult is often to confront oppressors, which can include corrupt lecturers, school authorities, or rival cult members.

Cultism is a malignant tumor afflicting Nigerian society, its detrimental effects spreading throughout every corner of the nation. Alongside issues like drug abuse and internet scams, Nigerian youth can easily fall prey to the negative influences of cultism. Originating in Nigeria in 1957, this menace has proliferated, infiltrating various strata of society. Nigerian cults are notorious for their extreme violence, leading to disruptions in academic institutions, loss of lives, and property damage. Other societal consequences include vandalism, rape, gambling, bullying, and drug abuse.

The most tragic outcome of cultism is premature death. The alarming rate at which young people are losing their lives due to involvement in cult activities is distressing. Minor disputes that could be resolved amicably often escalate into calamitous events within society.

Engaging in cultism and indiscipline leads to a reckless disregard for life and values, resulting in bullying fellow students and disrespecting teachers. Statistics demonstrate that individuals involved in cultism and indiscipline usually end up leading miserable lives and meeting untimely deaths. There have been numerous cases of cult members engaging in violent clashes and deadly missions against their rivals.

Cultism’s grip on Nigeria’s tertiary institutions has been a longstanding challenge. These institutions are increasingly becoming breeding grounds for cultism, violence, and criminal activities. While the government has made efforts to combat this threat to national security, democracy, and development, it remains imperative for individuals to resist the lure of cult groups. The end result is always disastrous. If you have friends or relatives showing interest in cult activities, it is your duty to dissuade them and make them realize that there is no gain in joining a cult. Show them that their worth exceeds wasting their time in such groups.

Cultism and indiscipline pave the way for drug addiction, leading to eventual insanity. Associating with bad company corrupts morals and exposes individuals to various forms of immorality.

Cultism has infiltrated many tertiary institutions and social sectors in Nigeria, affecting not only students but also teachers and other staff members. This social ill, characterized by violence, extortion, and intimidation, has persisted for decades and has become increasingly deadly due to the proliferation of weapons. Cultists are seen as rebels or vigilantes fighting against an unjust society, but they also engage in criminal activities such as kidnapping, robbery, drug trafficking, and cybercrime.

Cultism can result in the death of innocent family members linked to cultists. Rivalries between cult members often spill over to target the families of adversaries, resulting in death and severe injuries. It can also hinder individuals from realizing their full potential and achieving success.

However, no problem exists without a solution. Some potential solutions to this menace include parents enforcing discipline on their children, adopting effective parenting styles, actively engaging with their children, visiting them at school, and closely monitoring their activities. Parents should also lead by example and abstain from secret organizations. School authorities should maintain strict discipline and implement severe penalties for cultism, serving as a deterrent.

Additionally, schools, religious institutions, parents, students, government bodies, non-governmental organizations, and society as a whole should wage a collective battle against cultism through seminars, workshops, campaigns, and discussions. The dangers associated with cultism must be highlighted to educate and dissuade young people from getting involved.

 

The opinions expressed in this publication are those of the authors. They do not represent the opinions or views of Osun Defender