Ondo State Police Broker Peace Deal as Rival Cult Groups Surrender Weapons
The Ondo State Police Command has successfully mediated a historic peace agreement between rival cult groups in Ondo City, leading to the voluntary surrender of arms and a formal truce aimed at ending violent clashes that have long plagued the state. The initiative, spearheaded by Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, represents a landmark step in restoring community safety and curbing the influence of cult-related violence.
According to the Akahi News correspondent, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka Olusola, the Command’s spokesperson, disclosed in a statement on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, that the peace-building exercise forms part of a broader, strategic operation targeting violent crime and fostering reconciliation in communities repeatedly affected by cult-related attacks.
Cultists Surrender Arms and Embrace Peace
Akahi News gathered that the operation saw several individuals previously on the Police’s watchlist step forward to surrender weapons, including locally fabricated firearms and Beretta pistols, as well as 12 rounds of ammunition.
Some of the repentant cultists expressed relief at leaving the lifestyle behind. Many admitted that fear of arrest had forced them to flee the state, but the initiative provided a secure platform to return and reintegrate into society.
“The voluntary laying-down of arms by repentant cultists who renounced their membership of various cult groups underscores the crucial role of community partnerships in addressing long-standing security concerns,” the statement read.
The surrender included 17 arms and 12 rounds of ammunition, marking a significant step toward reducing the proliferation of illegal firearms in Ondo State.
Mediation Between Rival Groups
The Police also successfully mediated between two rival cult camps responsible for violent clashes earlier in the year that resulted in eight fatalities. Both factions agreed to a truce and pledged to abandon cycles of reprisal attacks.
Akahi News gathered that this reconciliation is being hailed as a major achievement, demonstrating the effectiveness of community-focused policing and dialogue in dismantling entrenched criminal networks.
Community Support and Government Endorsement
Commissioner Lawal commended the Ondo Ekimogun Youths under the “End Miscreants in Ondo” initiative for facilitating dialogue and fostering trust between the Police and the youth population.
He further thanked Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa and His Imperial Majesty, Oba Adesimbo Kiladejo, Jilo III, Osemawe and Paramount Ruler of Ondo Kingdom, for their guidance and support, noting that their fatherly counsel was instrumental to the success of the initiative.
“The Command will continue to encourage other cultists still in hiding to surrender, while ensuring that youth populations embrace peace,” Commissioner Lawal affirmed.
Reintegration and Rehabilitation
As part of the program, repentant cultists will now undergo structured counselling and mentorship programmes, ensuring they are properly reintegrated into society. The Police reiterated their commitment that any individual who refuses to renounce criminality will face the full force of the law.
This operation aligns with the broader vision of Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, emphasizing inclusive, people-centered policing as a tool to strengthen public safety and community trust.
Akahi News learnt that the initiative not only curtails the threat posed by cult violence but also reinforces a culture of accountability, collaboration, and reconciliation in Ondo State. Observers noted that sustained engagement with youth groups and community stakeholders will be critical to preventing the resurgence of cult-related activities.
The Ondo State Police Command has signalled that more rounds of community peace-building exercises are planned, with an emphasis on targeting illegal firearms, strengthening intelligence networks, and fostering lasting cooperation between law enforcement and local communities.
With this initiative, Ondo State demonstrates a proactive approach to public safety, sending a strong message that peace, reintegration, and community collaboration can prevail over cycles of violence and criminality.
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By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News
Joseph Iyaji is a journalist, educator, and founder of Akahi G. International, Akahi Tutors, and Akahi News. Read more about him here.
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