UNIBEN SUG Speaker Vows Crackdown on Cultism, Promotes Safer Campus

The UNIBEN SUG Speaker, Rt. Hon. Ekeyere Miracle, has pledged a comprehensive crackdown on cultism and related vices through education, technology, partnerships, and student empowerment to ensure a safer, morally upright campus.

The newly appointed Speaker of the Student Union Government (SUG) at the University of Benin (UNIBEN), Rt. Hon. (Amb.) Ekeyere Miracle, has pledged to intensify efforts against cultism and other negative behaviors threatening the integrity and safety of the institution.

Speaking to Leadership, Miracle emphasized that the 38th SUG Assembly is committed to reinforcing the university’s longstanding reputation for academic excellence by addressing the growing concern of cult-related activities on and around campus.

“UNIBEN stands for excellence, but social vices dim our collective light,” he said. “We must respond with firm education, enforcement, and collaboration to ensure every student thrives in a safe, upright environment.”

Educating, Empowering, and Enforcing

Miracle outlined a multifaceted approach to tackle these challenges, starting with awareness campaigns to educate students about the consequences of cultism and drug abuse. He further disclosed that any student found involved in such acts would face strict disciplinary measures.

To aid this mission, the SUG plans to:

• Launch a dedicated UNIBEN Anti-Vice Task Force, including SUG officials, faculty members, and alumni.
• Support student-led initiatives like anti-cultism rallies and ‘Exam Integrity Week’.
• Partner with community-based organizations such as the Cleen Foundation for joint advocacy.

Technology-Driven Safety Measures

A notable initiative proposed is the development of a UNIBEN mobile application that will include features for anonymous reporting of cultism, harassment, and exam malpractice. This tech-driven solution aims to empower students to report threats without fear of retaliation.

Collaboration with Security Agencies

Miracle revealed that the student union is set to partner with the Edo State Police and anti-cultism task forces to monitor and dismantle known cultist networks in nearby areas such as Ekehuan and Ekosodin.

“Many students fall into these vices due to academic pressure, financial hardship, or a lack of mentorship. Our duty is to create a support system that guides them toward productive choices,” he said.

A Call to Action

In his closing remarks, the Speaker urged fellow students to be proactive:

“To every UNIBENite: speak up, support your peers, and live by our motto—‘Knowledge for Service.’ Together, we can build a UNIBEN that’s not only a beacon of scholarship but a model of moral excellence.”

The Bigger Picture

Cultism and related vices have extended their reach beyond universities, creeping into secondary and even primary schools, especially across Southern Nigeria. UNIBEN’s stance, led by its student leadership, sets a precedent for other institutions seeking to combat the growing menace.

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SOURCES: ALLSCHOOL, LEADERSHIP