The Oyo State Police Command has made a significant breakthrough in the fight against cultism in tertiary institutions.
Two suspected cultists were arrested on the campus of The Polytechnic, Ibadan, with a locally made firearm and various charms recovered during the operation.
The suspects reportedly confessed to planning an attack on rival cult members, raising fresh concerns about the persistence of cult-related violence in Nigerian polytechnics.
The arrest was carried out by operatives from the Anti-Cultism Unit following credible intelligence.
According to police sources, the two students were apprehended while allegedly trying to hide weapons and fetish items near one of the hostels.
A search led to the recovery of a single-barrel gun, live ammunition, and several charms believed to be used for protection during cult activities.
Why This Arrest Matters for Campus Safety
This incident is a stark reminder that cultism remains a serious threat in many Nigerian higher institutions, especially polytechnics.
It comes shortly after UniAbuja expelled 28 students for cultism and drug offenses, showing that both security agencies and school authorities are stepping up their game.
Ibadan Poly has had a history of cult-related clashes in the past, and many parents and students have expressed worry about the safety of the campus environment.
The quick response by the police shows that security agencies are stepping up efforts to tackle the menace before it escalates.
The suspects are currently in police custody and will be charged in court soon. The Polytechnic management has also been notified and is expected to take internal disciplinary action.
This development has sparked conversations among students about the need for stronger security measures and more awareness campaigns on the dangers of joining secret cults.
Authorities are urging students to stay away from cult groups and report any suspicious activities to the school security or police. For parents, this is another wake-up call to monitor their children’s associations while in school.
The Oyo State Police Command has promised to sustain the crackdown on cultism across all institutions in the state. With this arrest, they hope to send a strong message that no one is above the law on campus.
If you have a ward studying at Ibadan Poly or any other institution, this is a good time to have an honest conversation about the dangers of cultism and the importance of staying focused on academics.
The fight against cultism is ongoing, but operations like this prove that consistent vigilance can make a real difference.