The Abia State Government has expressed serious concern over the growing cases of cult-related violence across the state and has directed security agencies to clamp down on those involved.
The Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu, disclosed this on Monday during a press briefing at the Government House in Umuahia. He addressed journalists on the key decisions taken at the State Executive Council meeting, presided over by Governor Alex Otti.
Kanu said the state government is disturbed by the rise in cultism and is determined to tackle the menace head-on.
“The state government has observed with dismay the growing incidents of cult activities. As a responsible government, this administration will spare no efforts in ensuring that the state is rid of cult activities,” he stated.
He described those involved in cultism as “undesirable elements” threatening peace and public safety and warned that the government would not tolerate any form of lawlessness.
In a related development, Kanu announced that 249 former staff of Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic, Aba, who were disengaged between 2018 and 2022, have started receiving their outstanding entitlements. The move is part of Governor Otti’s effort to clear inherited debts and restore trust in public service.
Kanu also revealed that the recruitment of health workers in the state has commenced. The process was recently approved by the governor, and application portals have now been opened by the Abia State Civil Service Commission.
The state government says it remains committed to restoring order, creating jobs, and improving service delivery across key sectors.