Repentant Cultists Surrender Arms as Ondo Police Achieve Breakthrough Peace Pact
26th November,2025
A major security milestone was recorded in Ondo City earlier today as the Ondo State Police Command, led by Commissioner of Police CP Adebowale Lawal, successfully brokered a historic peace deal that saw repentant cultists voluntarily surrender their arms and renounce membership of various cult groups. The development marks a significant step in the Command’s ongoing strategy to curb violent crimes and reinforce community safety across the state.
The peace-building effort—jointly coordinated by the Commissioner of Police, the Area Commander, and members of the Ondo Ekimogun Youths under the “End Miscreants in Ondo” initiative—highlighted the growing effectiveness of community-driven security collaboration. Several individuals previously on the Command’s watchlist were among those who surrendered, signalling the deepening impact of the police’s non-violent engagement approach.
In a major breakthrough, the Command also mediated peace between two rival cult camps believed to have been responsible for deadly clashes earlier in the year, which claimed eight lives. Both groups publicly reconciled, embracing one another in a symbolic gesture that security officials described as a move capable of ending long-standing cycles of reprisal violence.
Some of the repentant cultists, speaking after renouncing their activities, expressed relief at exiting the dangerous lifestyle. Many disclosed that fears of arrest had forced them out of the state, but the peace initiative now gives them confidence to return and rebuild their lives. Their willingness to partner with the Police to sustain peace further reflects renewed trust in law enforcement.
CP Lawal commended the Ekimogun Youths, the programme’s initiators, and key stakeholders whose roles were instrumental to the initiative’s success. He extended appreciation to Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa and the Osemawe of Ondo Kingdom, His Imperial Majesty Oba Adesimbo Kiladejo, Jilo III, for their support and fatherly guidance. The Commissioner assured continued collaboration while urging other cultists still in hiding to surrender or face firm enforcement actions.
In total, 17 arms and 12 rounds of ammunition—including 9mm rounds, AA cartridges, locally fabricated weapons, and Beretta pistols—were submitted, further underscoring progress in removing illegal firearms from circulation.
Reaffirming the vision of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, CP Lawal stated that repentant cultists who surrender their weapons and show genuine commitment to change will be reintegrated into society. He ordered that all who renounced cultism be enrolled in structured counselling and mentorship programmes.
The Ondo State Police Command reiterated its resolve to sustain people-centered policing, strengthen partnerships, and foster a safer environment for all residents
