Ondo Cultists Surrender Arms, Renounce Membership in Peace Initiative

In a major breakthrough for community-led security efforts, several youths identified as members of rival cult groups in Ondo city have voluntarily surrendered their arms and renounced their involvement in cult activities.

The disarmament, which took place on Tuesday, was organised by Ondo Ekimogun Youths in collaboration with the Ondo Police Area Command.

Police: Known Cult Members on Watchlist Among Those Who Surrendered

The Public Relations Officer of the Ondo State Police Command, Olusola Ayanlade, said the development highlights the effectiveness of community partnerships in addressing long-standing security threats.

According to him:

“Significantly, those who surrendered included known faces and individuals who had long been on the Command’s trail, many of whom were previously documented on the Command’s watchlist for their roles in cult-related activities.”

He added that their voluntary appearance shows increasing acceptance of the police’s peace-driven strategy and marks a major step toward dismantling entrenched cult networks.

Rival Groups Reconciled After Deadly Clashes

Ayanlade also revealed that the police successfully mediated peace talks between two rival cult groups responsible for violent clashes that claimed eight lives earlier in the year.

The Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, commended the youth group for spearheading dialogue and fostering stability. He assured continued police cooperation while emphasizing that more efforts would be made to encourage repentance among other cultists.
He, however, warned that anyone who persists in criminality will be arrested and prosecuted.

Arms Recovered

The police spokesperson confirmed that the cultists surrendered:

• 17 firearms
• 12 rounds of ammunition, including 9mm rounds and AA cartridges
• Locally fabricated weapons and Beretta pistols

These recoveries underscore the progress being made in curbing the circulation of illegal arms in the state.

Police Reaffirm Commitment to Community-Led Policing

Ayanlade reiterated that the Command remains committed to maintaining peace through sustained community engagement, strategic partnerships, and people-centered policing.