In a concerted effort to combat the growing menace of cultism in schools, the Eye on the Future Initiative (EFI), in collaboration with the Precious Family Charity Aid Foundation, conducted a powerful sensitization campaign at Oviri-Ogor Secondary School in Ughelli North Local Government Area of Delta State on Tuesday.
The initiative, aimed at raising awareness among students about the severe risks of cult involvement and other social vices, underscored the destructive impact such activities have on individuals and society at large. Addressing the students, the Executive Director of EFI, Comrade Josephine Omodior, highlighted the manipulative tactics employed by cults to recruit young members, warning that these groups often engage in illegal activities including drug trafficking, violence, and exploitation.
“Cultism undermines peace in both educational institutions and the broader society,” Omodior stated, urging students to be vigilant and report any recruitment attempts to their parents or teachers. She emphasized that cult members face significant emotional and psychological challenges, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Speaking passionately to the students, Omodior added, “Cultism is a serious social problem that not only destroys lives but also disrupts the harmony of communities. These groups use fear, manipulation, and coercion to control their members and often push them into criminal activities such as drug abuse, kidnapping, and violence.”
The EFI Executive Director also warned of the long-term impact cultism has on social progress, stating that cults foster harmful practices that can lead to societal instability, conflicts, and a breakdown in community trust. She urged students to stay away from cultism, explaining that eradicating it requires collective action through education and community engagement to foster a safer environment for youth.
The campaign didn’t just stop at warnings. Educational materials were distributed to the students to further reinforce the message that education is a powerful tool in combatting cultism. Omodior also encouraged any student already involved in cult activities to seek help, stressing that there are avenues for support.
The principal of Oviri-Ogor Secondary School, Mr. Aroture Oshevire, expressed deep appreciation for the initiative, noting that it offered students a clear understanding of the dangers associated with cultism. He reminded the students of their potential and urged them not to destroy their future by falling prey to social vices, emphasizing that they are the leaders of tomorrow.
The sensitization campaign marks a significant step in the ongoing effort to address cultism in schools, with EFI and its partners continuing to promote education and awareness as key tools in safeguarding the future of Delta State’s youth.
