By Divine Sam
The recent wave of cult-related violence in Edo State has led to protests by young women in Benin City, who are deeply affected by the killings. Many of these women, aged 20 to 35, lament that the violence has not only caused the loss of husbands and brothers but is also creating a scarcity of men, making it harder for women to find partners. The protests highlight the toll these killings are taking on families, with some women now widows due to the violent clashes.
The protesters, who were clad in black, called on government authorities, religious bodies, and security agencies to intervene and stop the ongoing violence. They emphasized the devastating impact on families and the future of the youth, urging for peace and unity in the region. One of the protesters, Miss Precious Ikponmwen, shared how widespread the violence has become, affecting nearly every household in the state, and called for stronger action to prevent further bloodshed.
A letter from two protesters, Miss Ojo Gloria Eki and Precious Omoghan Ikpowonsa, appealed to leaders and traditional institutions to use their influence to promote dialogue and end the violence. They stressed that the youth are the future of the nation and urged for peace and reconciliation among conflicting groups.
The protests come amid a resurgence of cult-related killings, with over 50 people reported dead since the start of the month. The Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, has ordered security forces to clamp down on cult groups and restore peace to the state.