Hundreds of women in Edo State took to the streets of Benin City on Tuesday to protest the surge in cult-related killings that have claimed numerous lives over the past two months.

Dressed in black and holding placards with messages such as “We are tired of the killings” and “Save our youth”, the women converged at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Secretariat in Edo State. They called on the state government, traditional leaders, religious organizations, and security agencies to urgently intervene and restore peace.

Gloria Ojo, one of the protest leaders, presented a heartfelt letter titled “Appeal for Peace and Unity in Edo State” to the NUJ. In her address, she called on leaders to take decisive action, stating:

“I write with a heavy heart about the tragic events in Edo State, especially the senseless killings of our youth. These young people are the future of our nation, and it is heartbreaking to see their lives cut short. I urge our leaders to use their influence to halt this violence and promote peaceful coexistence, dialogue, and understanding.”

Ojo emphasized the need for justice, reconciliation, and unity to bring an end to the ongoing bloodshed.

Another protest leader, Precious Ikponmwen, highlighted the devastating impact of the killings on women and families.

“We are tired. Many young women in their 20s and 30s are now widows. Almost every household in Edo has been affected. How do we raise children alone in such conditions? These killings must stop,” she pleaded.

She noted that the victims of these cult clashes are often their husbands and brothers, further intensifying the burden on families.

In response to the growing crisis, Edo State Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to tackling cult-related violence.

“During my campaign, I made security a top priority, and it remains so. The current level of cultism in Edo is unacceptable. We will not sit idly while bloodshed continues. Security agencies have been directed to root out these criminals and ensure peace returns,” Okpebholo declared.

The governor assured citizens that his administration is collaborating with security agencies to make the state safe for all, vowing that Edo would no longer harbor criminal elements.

Commissioner of Police Umoru Ozigi also addressed the issue, confirming that the recent security council meeting focused heavily on combating cultism.

“The state government has provided full support to security agencies to address this crisis. We are committed to restoring safety and ensuring that residents of Edo can live without fear,” Ozigi stated.

The protest highlights the urgency for collective action to curb cultism and violence, as Edo women demand accountability and peace in their communities.