Suspected cultists cause uproar in Delta secondary school, 10 in police net

Despite the Delta State Government campaign against cultism in schools, some students in secondary schools in Asaba and its environs are still involved in cult related activities.

The Government Youth Campaign Programme tagged “Cultism, the Nigerian Child,” has been introduced to various schools, especially across the three senatorial districts, and anchored by the Directorate of Youth Development.

Expectedly, the programme targeted at secondary school students was flagged off in Oshimili North Local Government Area of the state by the Governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, few months ago as its major aim is to re-orientate and educate students on the dangers of engaging in cult activities.

But this was not to be on Thursday in Asaba as some group of students suspected to be members of a cult group allegedly invaded one of the secondary schools around Inter-Bau (name withheld) to cause chaos inside the school premises and classrooms.

It was gathered that some of the schools involved included, Niger Mixed Secondary School, Asagba Mixed Secondary School and Osadenis High School where the suspected cultists earlier allegedly engaged in attacks and counter-attacks, especially at the end of the last JSS III examinations.

Last week Wednesday, it was a herculean task for security agents who were invited to help contend the students after the students of Niger Mixed Secondary School allegedly invaded Osadenis High School Asaba.

Both teachers/students including pedestrians ran in confusion to escape from the attackers who alleged to wielding dangerous weapons as opposite streets from Mammy Market to Ezenei Avenue shocked as the students chased one another. The presence of security agents however caused some respite as the rampaging suspected cultist took to their heels, and escaped police arrest. Students who were trapped by the chaos were not that lucky as some of them were arrested on their way home and detained by the police from the Special Anti Cult Unit (SACU), but they were later released after they reportedly proved their innocence.

Speaking to journalists the Police Image Maker in the state, Mr. Andrew Aniamaka, said eight suspected cultists were arrested adding that they are currently undergoing interrogations. While calling on parents to inculcate the discipline of care in their children, he said that the police would continue to arrest and bring to book those involved in criminal activities.