Cultism is a major problem in many Nigerian universities, with students often being forced to join these groups or face violence and harassment.
Cult groups engage in violent activities such as killings, robberies, and rape, among others. Here are some of the most violent cult killings in Nigeria that have led to an outcry and the names of the students and universities involved.
- UNIBEN Cult Killings: In May 2020, four students of the University of Benin, Uwaila Omozuwa, Vera Uwaila Omozuwa, Ibrahim Momodu, and Divine Omajuwa, were killed by suspected cultists. Uwaila Omozuwa was raped and murdered inside a church in Benin City, while the other three were shot dead. The incident sparked widespread outrage and protests across the country, with many calling for an end to cultism in Nigerian universities.
- UNIZIK Cult Killings: In October 2019, two students of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Chinedu Okoye and Olisa Osega, were killed in a cult clash between two rival groups. The incident occurred during a night party organized by students of the Faculty of Engineering. The two students were shot dead, and several others were injured in the ensuing violence.
- AAU Cult Killings: In October 2019, a final year student of Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Collins Ojierakhi, was shot dead by suspected cultists. The incident occurred during a clash between two rival cult groups on campus. Ojierakhi was the president of the Students Union Government of the university and was known for his activism against cultism and other vices on campus.
- UNILAG Cult Killings: In November 2019, a student of the University of Lagos, John Ayoola, was killed by suspected cultists. Ayoola, who was a final year student of the Department of English, was shot dead on his way to a lecture. The incident sparked protests by students of the university, who called for an end to cultism and insecurity on campus.
Cultism in Nigerian universities is a serious problem that has claimed the lives of many students.
The violent cult killings of Uwaila Omozuwa, Vera Uwaila Omozuwa, Ibrahim Momodu, Divine Omajuwa, Chinedu Okoye, Olisa Osega, Collins Ojierakhi, and John Ayoola are just a few examples of the devastating impact of cultism in Nigerian universities. It is important for the government, university authorities, and students to work together to end cultism and promote a safe and conducive environment for learning.
