Asaba, Delta – Residents of Delta State have expressed worry over the growing wave of insecurity, particularly the alarming rise in cult-related violence, with many pointing to parental neglect and government inaction as key contributors.

In recent weeks, the state has witnessed a disturbing surge in cultism, marked by violent clashes and killings in several communities.

The latest flashpoints include Abraka, in Ethiope East Local Council Area, and Ozoro, where bloody incidents have left residents in fear and mourning.

Reacting to the trend, the Delta State Police Command spokesperson, DSP Bright Edafe, lamented the breakdown in parental responsibility, particularly the failure to monitor the daily activities of children, especially boys.

He said: “Nowadays, parents don’t care about what their children are doing. They need to go back to the drawing board and do their jobs thoroughly. Proper upbringing, based on societal norms and values, is critical to preventing youths from being lured into cult groups,” Edafe said.

He also appealed to those already involved in cultism to quit immediately, saying: “There are no benefits in cultism. So, we must educate our youths to withdraw as early as possible before it is too late.”

Echoing Edafe’s concerns, Victor Ojei, also known as Wong Box, who leads the Young Nigerian Rights Organisation (YNRO), described the recent killings, particularly in Ozoro, as evidence of deeper systemic failures.