JOS, PLATEAU – The escalating menace of what is suspected to be cultism in Jos has once again claimed another life, underscoring the urgent need for collective action to curb the crisis.
On Wednesday 20th February 2025, the deceased known as Skilaw was reportedly killed by members of a rival group in the Gada Biu area of Jos, Plateau State. Conflicting reports suggest he may have been attacked in his childhood neighborhood of Angwan Soya.
According to sources, Skilaw, had been struggling with mental health issues in recent months. He was initially taken to a mental health facility before being transferred to a prayer house. However, reports indicate that he escaped from the prayer house and was roaming the streets when he was spotted and killed by rival cultists.
This latest incident is a continuation of the violent cult clashes that have plagued the state. In June 2024, a deadly confrontation between rival groups resulted in multiple casualties and heightened tensions. Reports at the time suggested that cult members were fueling the unrest, the said deseased. Since then, some individuals have either been killed or arrested, raising concerns about the cyclical nature of cult-related violence.
However efforts to reach the Plateau State Police Public Relations Office to comment on the issue remained unsuccessful as at the time of this report.
The prevalence of cultism in Jos and other parts of the country highlights the need for intensified efforts from both law enforcement, community leaders, and the general public. Cult clashes not only result in loss of lives but also create an atmosphere of fear and instability.
Security agencies must strengthen intelligence gathering and swiftly apprehend perpetrators, while community leaders and parents must engage youths in productive activities to deter them from joining such groups. Schools and religious institutions should also intensify awareness campaigns against cultism, educating young people on its dangers and long-term consequences.
Every individual has a role to play in eradicating cultism. It is crucial to reject cult-related activities and report suspicious behaviors to the authorities to prevent further loss of life. Jos, and Nigeria at large, must come together to end this destructive cycle before more lives are lost.
Let’s Choose Peace.