The Lagos State House of Assembly has summoned the State Commissioner of Police, Jimoh Moshood, along with three other key government officials, over the recent surge in cult-related violence and unrest in Mushin and other parts of the state, which have led to the loss of innocent lives.
Also summoned are the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Bolaji Robert; the Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Ope George; and the Commissioner for Education, Toani Ali-Balogun.
The summons followed a motion raised during Mondayās plenary session by Hon. Olayinka Kazeem, who represents Mushin Constituency II. The motion, presented under āMatters of Urgent Public Importance,ā highlighted a disturbing increase in cult activities, involving even underage youths in his constituency.
āThis issue is heartbreaking for both the community and the families of the affected children. I urge the Assembly to empower security agencies to intensify their crackdown on cultism and ensure strict drug control,ā Kazeem said, also calling for urgent intervention and youth reorientation programmes.
Supporting the motion, Hon. Nureeni Akinsanya representing Mushin Constituency I described the situation as dire, noting that gangs armed with dangerous weapons had taken over several streets.
“We are doing our best to curb cultism. Too many people have lost their lives. Vehicles and properties are being destroyed, and the law is being overtaken by raw emotion. This has gone on for far too long.
“I would like to add to this motion that we call on the Commissioner of Police to organize a security stakeholdersā meeting with community leaders to address this menace.
“Patrol vehicles with personnel should be stationed at known black spots, including Abiodun, Olukoga, and other areas in the community. The security of lives and property is paramount in our state and community,ā he said.
Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, acknowledged that the issue of cultism and youth violence extends beyond Mushin, affecting multiple communities across Lagos State. While noting the strain on correctional facilities, he stressed the need for alternative measures, such as youth engagement through sportsāinitiatives the House has already budgeted for.
āThe local governments must take responsibility for these miscreants, many of whom are now living under bridges. We must double our efforts to engage the youths meaningfully,ā Obasa stated.
The Speaker concluded by confirming that the summoned officials will appear before the Assembly for further deliberation, after which a concrete position will be taken by the House.
