Lagos assembly summons commissioners over rising youth cult activities

The Lagos house of assembly has summoned some commissioners to present strategies for tackling the growing menace of cultism among youths.

Those invited include commissioners for economic planning and budget; youth and sports; education; local government and chieftaincy affairs; and the commissioner of police.

While moving a motion on Monday, Olayinka Kazeem, member representing the Mushin constituency II, expressed concern over the surge in cult-related violence in the area and other parts of Lagos.

Kazeem described the involvement of school-aged youths in criminal activities as “disturbing”, noting that young people who should be in classrooms are engaging in violent acts.

Backing the motion, Ladi Ajomale, representing Oshodi-Isolo constituency II, said the infiltration of cultism into secondary schools is becoming “alarming and unacceptable”.

Ajomale urged the ministry of youth and sports development to roll out programmes to steer youths away from cult groups.

Lukman Olumoh, who represents the Ajeromi Ifelodun constituency, called for improved grassroots mentorship initiatives, noting that community leaders and stakeholders must guide youths toward productive paths.

Mudashiru Obasa, the speaker of the assembly, said the threat of cultism has spread and has become a statewide concern in Lagos.

Obasa added that imprisonment alone is no longer an effective deterrent.

“We must look inward, review our laws, and broaden intervention efforts,” the speaker said.

“More must be done through sports, creativity, and community engagement. Local governments must also step up by deploying security and rehabilitating errant youths.”