The Divine Mandate Against Cultism: Governor Okpebholo’s Declaration of War
Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki’s successor, Monday Okpebholo, made a powerful declaration on Sunday, June 18, 2023, asserting that he has been divinely chosen to combat the pervasive issue of cultism in the state. Speaking at a special Thanksgiving mass held to celebrate the second anniversary of Speaker Blessing Agbebaku’s tenure and to commemorate Father’s Day, Governor Okpebholo emphasized the spiritual dimension of his mission, stating that his appointment was not based on physical strength or prowess, but rather on a divine calling to address this deeply rooted societal problem.
The governor’s pronouncements, delivered with conviction and a sense of purpose, resonated deeply with the attendees, highlighting the gravity of the cultism menace and the unwavering commitment of the state government to eradicate it. He drew a parallel between the role of a father and that of a leader, underscoring the importance of courage, sympathy, and unwavering love in both spheres. His words served as a reassurance to the people of Edo State of his administration’s dedication to tackling the challenges facing the state, with a firm belief that his leadership is divinely guided.
This declaration of a "divine mandate" against cultism positions Governor Okpebholo not just as a political leader, but as a spiritual figurehead leading a crusade against a social ill. This framing of the issue elevates the fight against cultism beyond mere law enforcement, imbuing it with a moral and spiritual significance that could potentially resonate with a wider audience. By invoking divine authority, the governor seeks to garner greater public support and legitimize his actions in the eyes of the citizenry. This strategy could prove particularly effective in a society deeply rooted in religious beliefs, where appeals to faith often hold significant sway.
The Thanksgiving mass, which also served as a platform to celebrate Speaker Agbebaku’s second year in office, further solidified the collaborative spirit between the executive and legislative branches of the Edo State government. Speaker Agbebaku reaffirmed the House of Assembly’s commitment to work closely with the governor, emphasizing their shared goal of elevating Edo State to new heights of progress and prosperity. This public display of unity sends a strong message of cohesion and shared purpose within the state government, essential for effective governance and policy implementation.
The timing of the governor’s declaration, coinciding with Father’s Day, adds another layer of symbolism to the event. By linking his fight against cultism with the values of fatherhood – courage, sympathy, and love – Governor Okpebholo seeks to create a powerful narrative that resonates with the paternal instincts of his constituents. This framing also emphasizes the importance of nurturing and protecting the youth, who are often the primary targets of cult recruitment.
The event culminated with the presentation of awards to Governor Okpebholo, Speaker Agbebaku, the Deputy Speaker, and the Majority Leader of the House. This symbolic gesture further reinforces the narrative of collaborative leadership and shared responsibility in tackling the challenges facing Edo State. The awards serve not only as recognition of their individual contributions but also as a symbol of their collective commitment to work together for the betterment of the state. The governor’s declaration against cultism, combined with the display of unity amongst state leaders, sets the stage for what promises to be a concerted and multifaceted approach to addressing this deeply entrenched social issue. The coming months will reveal the specific strategies and policies the Okpebholo administration will employ to fulfill this divinely ordained mission.
