Edo: Judiciary, legal practitioners declare support for Gov Okpebholo’s anti-cultism, kidnapping war

The judiciary and legal practitioners in Edo State have declared full support for the ongoing war against cultism and kidnapping championed by Governor Monday Okpebholo.

This was contained in a statement signed by Mr Fred Itua, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Okpebholo, on Tuesday.

The statement followed a high-level meeting held at the Government House in Benin City between the Governor and the Chief Judge of Edo State, Hon Justice Daniel Iyobosa Okungbowa, who led a delegation of judges and legal professionals from across the state.

The statement reads partly: “There is a fight against cultism, and I am taking it very seriously. I need your cooperation. These crimes are a major setback to our economic development. We must bring them down to the barest minimum so we can feel safe again, our children can invest here, and their investments will be protected.”

It added: “I appreciate the synergy we have enjoyed so far. I usually get quick and helpful responses whenever I seek legal advice.”

It continued: “These crimes are not just security threats; they are threats to our future. We must tackle them from all angles—legally, structurally, and institutionally.”

According to the statement, “Earlier this year, the Governor signed into law the Secret Cult and Similar Activities (Prohibition) Law, 2025, and the Kidnapping Prohibition (Amendment) Law, 2025. The laws impose a mandatory 10-year jail term for harbouring cultists; 21 years for cultists who cause injury or damage; and the death penalty for kidnappers whose victims die in custody.”

The statement added that Governor Okpebholo also pledged to address the staffing challenges facing the judiciary, following the Chief Judge’s disclosure that several legal professionals had exited the service in search of better opportunities abroad.

The Governor reportedly assured the judiciary of his administration’s commitment to strengthening the justice system through recruitment and provision of necessary support infrastructure.

The statement further noted that the meeting reaffirmed the joint resolve of the executive and judiciary to rid Edo State of criminal elements and safeguard lives and property.