*Issues royal order following deadly cult clashes *Palace Spokesman Amb. Ibrahim Olawale Seriki addresses journalists By KATO P. LADAN,
*Issues royal order following deadly cult clashes
*Palace Spokesman Amb. Ibrahim Olawale Seriki addresses journalists
By KATO P. LADAN, Kaduna
Following deadly clashes, His Royal Majesty, Oba Dr. Ibrahim Olasunkanmi Lawal Bello, the Ilufemiloba Aremo Olofin Ogunfunminire, Olanwa I Olofin V, Oba of Isheri Olofin Kingdom, has warned cultists of dire consequences, if they fail to denounce Cultism and its related activities.
The Oba expressed this during a press conference In the early hours of Sunday, by the Director of Communications and Strategy to the Palace in response to a tragic cult-related clash that occurred overnight in the community.
Speaking to newsmen, Amb. Ibrahim Olawale Seriki, a respected youth development advocate and palace spokesman, described the previous night’s incident as a “national shame and a communal tragedy”, noting that a promising young life was needlessly lost in the fracas.
“The Palace is in mourning,” Seriki began, “and His Royal Majesty is heartbroken. We have lost one of our own—a future leader, a young Nigerian whose life was cut short by the senseless actions of cult groups. This is a wake-up call for all of us. Cultism is not culture. It is a curse.”
According to him, Oba Dr. Ibrahim Olasunkanmi Lawal Bello, a peace-loving and people-focused monarch, has issued a standing royal directive to all youth in the Isheri Olofin Kingdom to denounce cultism now, or be prepared to face royal wrath, community rejection, and the full weight of the law.
“His Majesty is not mincing words. “Any youth who continues in cult activities will be considered an enemy of the peace and prosperity of this land. But Kabiyesi is also offering redemption. He is giving our youths a chance to break free. He is saying, ‘Come back home, and we will stand by you.’”
Amb. Seriki further announced that the palace has approved the establishment of a Palace Youth Reintegration and Development Initiative (PYRDI), a multi-level intervention aimed at reforming and reintegrating former cult members.
“This is not just about denouncing cultism. It’s about creating an alternative path. A path to peace, productivity, and prosperity.” He added.
According to him, the programmes outlined will include, Confidential and safe channels for denouncement, Collaboration with local law enforcement for protection, Skills acquisition and training in trades such as ICT, tailoring, welding, agriculture, and digital entrepreneurship and Educational support for those returning to school.
Others are, Psychological and spiritual counseling for healing, a mentorship network, including palace elders and business leaders
and microgrants and startup support for peaceful small businesses.
“We are going beyond words,” Seriki said. “We are creating platforms to transform pain into purposeful gains. Every denounced youth will be given the tools to build a new life.” He assured.
While emphasizing the monarch’s compassionate approach, Amb. Seriki also warned that the kingdom will not fold its arms while peace is undermined.
He stated that Kabiyesi has met with the local security forces, including the Nigeria Police Force and the Isheri-Olofin Royal Peace Corps, and has instructed them to increase surveillance and crack down on cult activity with immediate effect.
“There shall be no hiding place for those who continue to shed innocent blood,” Seriki declared. “Every street, every corner, every base—our intelligence networks will find you. But you still have a choice. Choose peace while you still can.” He warned.
He informed that the palace has also called on religious leaders, school administrators, parents, community development associations, and youth groups to join in the kingdom-wide campaign against cultism.
“Plans are underway for a Town Hall for Peace, where stakeholders will engage in open dialogue about how to end cultism and violence permanently in the area.
“Our greatest resource is our youth,” Seriki said. “We cannot allow them to waste away in the name of false brotherhood. It is time to build, not destroy.” He stressed.
As the briefing came to a close, Amb. Seriki reminded journalists of Kabiyesi’s unwavering vision for a peaceful and prosperous Isheri Olofin Kingdom.
“His Royal Majesty believes in the youth. He believes in second chances. But he also believes in justice and discipline. Today, we are drawing a line between light and darkness, peace and war, life and death. Kabiyesi is choosing peace—and he is calling on all youths to do the same.
“Let this be the end of cultism in our land. Let this be the beginning of a new season for our youth. Come home. Denounce the darkness. Choose peace. And the Kingdom will walk with you into a brighter future.” He declared.
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