In a bid to address the rising concerns of insecurity, the leadership of Ihiala town in Anambra State has taken decisive action against alleged perpetrators of cult-related violence. A total of 11 individuals have been banished from the community due to their suspected involvement in cult-related killings and kidnappings.
The town, situated on the border with Imo State, has been grappling with security challenges in recent years, prompting many residents to seek refuge in safer locations.
Barrister Okey Leo Ohagba, President-General of Ihiala Progressive Union (IPU), announced the banishment in a statement, identifying the individuals involved. Despite being given a 48-hour window to clear their names with security agencies and an additional 72-hour grace period to renounce their involvement in cultism, the suspects failed to comply.
In an effort to ensure the safety of residents, the names and photographs of the identified individuals will be publicized on social media platforms and billboards strategically placed within and around Ihiala for easy identification.
Furthermore, the community issued a stern warning, declaring that any individual found harboring or associating with the banished individuals will be considered an accomplice and will face similar consequences as the offenders under the law.
Emphasizing the commitment to combating cult-related activities, the statement reiterated the ban on cultism in Ihiala town, aligning with the existing proscription order by the Anambra State government and collaborating closely with law enforcement agencies.