During today’s plenary session, the Anambra State House of Assembly successfully ratified a bill aimed at outlawing secret cultism and associated activities within the state, marking a significant legislative milestone in the ongoing efforts to enhance security and social stability.
The bill, which originated as an executive proposal, underwent rigorous scrutiny within the Committee of the Whole before receiving unanimous approval during its third reading.
Among its key provisions, the bill mandates severe penalties, including life imprisonment or a minimum of 21 years without parole, for individuals found guilty of secret cult membership or involvement in related criminal acts, irrespective of whether offensive weapons are involved.
In response to the passage of the bill, the Majority Leader of the House, Sir Ikenna Ofodeme, lauded the collective efforts of the legislators and emphasized the legislation’s potential to safeguard the lives of Anambra residents while equipping law enforcement agencies with the necessary legal tools to combat cultism effectively.
He expressed gratitude for the solidarity demonstrated by his colleagues in advancing the state’s developmental agenda, underscoring the bill’s significance in fostering peace, security, and societal harmony upon receiving gubernatorial assent.
In a similar vein, the Speaker of the House, Right Honourable Somtochukwu Udeze, acknowledged the pressing need to address the escalating menace of cult activities within the state, emphasizing the pivotal role of the newly enacted law in confronting this challenge head-on.
Anticipating the bill’s imminent implementation upon the Governor’s endorsement, scheduled for May 7, 2024, Speaker Udeze commended the swift and unanimous support garnered from legislators, reflecting their unwavering commitment to safeguarding the interests of Anambra citizens.
In a related development, Honourable Noble Igwe, representing Ogbaru Constituency One, expressed appreciation to Governor Soludo for the tangible progress witnessed in the transformation of Okpoko community, attributing it to the dividends of democracy enjoyed by residents under the present administration’s leadership.
