In a significant development for community safety, 48 repentant cultists in Sagamu, Ogun State, have voluntarily surrendered their weapons to the Nigeria Police Force and renounced their affiliations with various cult groups.

The ceremony, held at the Palace of the Akarigbo of Remoland, Oba Adewale Ajayi, marked a pivotal moment as these individuals publicly disavowed their past associations and committed to a new path of peace and reconciliation.

Earlier in January, two prominent cult groups, Neo Black Movement (Aye) and National Association of Airlords (Eiye Confraternity), had penned letters of apology to Oba Ajayi, expressing remorse for their actions and pledging adherence to the laws of the land.

Among the arms relinquished were firearms ranging from pump-action guns to locally made pistols, along with cartridges, symbolizing a tangible step towards disarmament and community safety.

Addressing the gathering, Ogun State’s Commissioner of Police, Abiodun Alamutu, highlighted the police force’s strategy of moral persuasion in engaging with these individuals, which yielded positive outcomes in fostering peace and dissuading further violence.

Alamutu emphasized the importance of sustaining this momentum, outlining plans for collaboration with the state government and traditional authorities to integrate the repentant cultists into initiatives aimed at preventing others from following a similar path.

In response, Oba Ajayi commended the concerted efforts of community leaders, security agencies, and the Sagamu Security Committee in facilitating the amnesty process. He underscored the significance of ongoing engagement and support to ensure the successful reintegration of these individuals into society.

As the community embraces this transformative process, Oba Ajayi appealed to residents to extend compassion and understanding to the repentant cultists, encouraging unity and solidarity as they embark on their journey towards a brighter future.