Anambra State House of Assembly on Wednesday, passed a Bill to prohibit secret cultism and similar activities in the State.
The Bill, which was read for the third time in the House was passed into law by the Assembly.
According to report, the Executive Bill underwent thorough considerations in the Committee of the House before scaling through.
Speaking on the importance of the law to the State, the Majority Leader of the House, Ikenna Ofodeme praised the passage of the Bill. He said the law will go a long way in saving the lives of Ndi Anambra. And will also empower authorities in the State to take decisive actions against perpetrators.
Ofodeme, therefore, thanked the legislators for their support to the Executive towards the progress of Ndi Anambra. He added that the bill when signed by the Governor will signal a new chapter in the ongoing efforts to further promote peace, security, and social cohesion in the State.
“The Bill contains that any person who is a member of a secret cult, has committed an offence. Whether or not in possession of an offensive weapon. And is liable on conviction to imprisonment for life or a minimum of 21 years imprisonment without an option of fine.
“The Bill is aimed at curbing secret cultism and related offences. And it provides a legal framework to prohibit and penalize such behaviours, and associated crimes.”
On his submission, the Speaker, Somtochukwu Udeze, acknowledged the recent outcry regarding activities related to cultism in the State. He, therefore, stressed that the law is important in addressing the issue.
Udeze also pointed that the Bill will come into force on May 7, 2024. This is after the Governor has assented to the Bill. He, therefore, described the assent as a pivotal step in salvaging the situation.
Udeze used the occasion to commend the legislators for their efforts in the speedy passage of the Bill. The Bill received unanimous support through a voice vote.
Recall that cult-related killings in Anambra State have become a source of concern among stakeholders and residents in recent times.
IVNTV NEWS had reported that over 15 persons have so far been killed in Awka, the Anambra State Capital by Easter. The killings, it was gathered was for supremacy among suspected rival cult gangs in the area.
source: PUNCH
