Cultism has been a major challenge in Nigeria for decades. Many gruesome activities have gone into place because of group clashes and different purposes. Definitely, parents don\’t want their children to be a part of this nightmare in our community.
However, for years the evil perpetrated by these sects has survived for decades with no way to end it in sight. Then the biggest question is, who initiated this ideology, and what was their aim?
What is Cultism?
A cult means the coming together of different people to form an ideology, philosophy, movement, or purpose that is beneficial to every group member. This means that a cult can be a political or social club with the aim of achieving a goal.
Against popular belief, cultism has nothing to do with a sect that aims to harm society or cause chaos.
However, because of the activities conducted by different fraternities today, society has termed cultism as an enemy of humanity that aims only to promote the interests of its members, even if it requires violence and killings.
The Beginning of Cultism in Nigeria.
The History of cultism is traced to the Western World. However, because of how the western culture penetrated African culture, a lot of ideology was transferred into how we live.
Although the Ogboni fraternity and some cult groups existed in Nigeria during the pre-colonial era, they used their spiritualism for a different purpose. They are known for human sacrifices, rituals and spiritual activities.
In 1952, seven university students came together at the University of Ibadan to form the first official cult in Nigeria. It was led by Wole Soyinka, other members of the cult are;
- Tunji Tobi
- Olu Agunloye
- Ralph Opara
- Aig-I’moukhuede
- Pius Olegbe
- Olumuyiwa Awe.
They named themselves the \”Sea Dog Confraternity\” and can also be called \”The Pirates.\” The formation of this group was well spelt out during the origination.
They were concerned with revolting against the colonial masters. But as against the existing violent approach to fighting the whites, the confraternity aimed to resist the rulership of the white with their intellectual capabilities.
While opposing the British leaders, they ensured that they acted based on the law\’s confines. Without becoming offenders, they stood against the system that enslaved the nation.
To date, many accredited the orchestration of cultism in Nigeria to Pro. Wole Soyinka.
Cultism in Nigeria Today
It\’s a sad thing today that the purpose of this term has changed over the years. Many people without the knowledge of such groups have established unlawful and unregistered groups with scrupulous agendas.
The essence has been lost, and most groups are established solely to promote their members\’ selfish and personal interests. The higher institution has been a playground for most cult groups.
They have not just been involved in fights and violent acts; several groups are directly involved in the killings of lecturers and students. One reason for the constant struggles is the existence of several cult groups.
While some schools are prone to cult fights, some have been able to reduce their excesses and curb their actions.
Most of these groups are believed to be funded by influential people in society. They use satanism, weapons, and violence to guide their territories and take territories from people.
It is no longer a good thing in Nigeria today, which makes the law enforcers desperate to end the group and cut off their spiritual, financial, and physical supplies.
Conclusion
Prof Wole Soyinka created a cult that was supposed to be a legacy and something people would follow to change society.
However, the goal was wrongly interpreted and converted, but his plan during the first cult remains a good thing.
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