EDO WOMEN PROTEST RISING CULT KILLINGS, CITE IMPACT ON MARRIAGES AND FAMILY LIFE. (PHOTOS).

 Edo Women Protest Rising Cult Killings, Cite Impact on Marriages and Family Life

Hundreds of young women took to the streets of Benin City on Tuesday to protest the increasing number of cult-related killings in Edo State. The women, aged between 20 and 35, expressed their frustration over how the violence has led to the deaths of many young men, turning some women into widows and making it harder for others to find husbands.

Dressed in black, the protesters called on the Edo State Government, traditional leaders, religious organizations, and security agencies to intervene and put an end to the killings. They marched to the Edo State House of Assembly and the Nigeria Union of Journalists' secretariat to voice their concerns, warning that the ongoing violence was causing a shortage of available men in the community.

One of the protesters, Miss Precious Ikponmwen, shared her distress over the impact of the killings, saying, "Many young girls are turning into widows in their 20s and 30s. Almost every household in Edo has been affected. It's difficult to raise children as a single parent. These fights involve our husbands, brothers, and loved ones."

Miss Ojo Gloria Eki also spoke out, emphasizing the vital role that youth play in the nation's future and lamenting the loss of young lives to violence. Along with Precious Omoghan Ikpowonsa, she co-signed a letter titled "Appeal for Peace and Unity in Edo State," urging the government and security agencies to take immediate action to end the senseless killings.

The letter highlighted the urgent need for intervention to restore peace and harmony in the state, calling on traditional leaders and authorities to advocate for dialogue and reconciliation to end the violence.

Since the start of the month, over 50 people have reportedly been killed in renewed cult clashes in the state. In response, Governor Monday Okpebholo has directed security agencies to intensify efforts to combat cultism and criminal activity in Edo.