By IN response to the rise in secret cult reprisal killings in Benin, Edo State, a group known as Concerned Edo Ladies, who claim to be widows of slain cultists, have called for an end to the violence.
The group urged all parties involved to sheath their swords and embrace peace during a protest on Tuesday, 19 November 2024.
Clad in black attire and carrying placards with inscriptions such as “Stop Killing Our Husbands”, “Say No to Killings in Edo”, and “Stop Killing Our Youths”, the women, many of whom claimed to be widows, took to the streets of Benin City.
The protesters
Their peaceful demonstration aimed to draw attention to the devastating impact of the killings on families and the community.
In a joint statement released at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Edo State Council premises, the group’s conveners, Precious Omoghan Ikponmwen and Ojo Gloria Eki, condemned the violence and called on perpetrators to embrace dialogue and peaceful conflict resolution.
“The youths are the leaders of tomorrow and should see themselves as such,” Ikponmwen and Eki said.
They emphasised the importance of fostering peace to ensure the state’s development and prosperity.
Expressing deep sorrow over recent events, the conveners highlighted the tragic loss of young lives, which they described as senseless and unnecessary.
“It is with a heavy heart that we address the current situation. The ongoing killings have brought tears, sorrow, and despair to countless families,” they noted.
The group further stated that the youth represent the hope and future of the nation, urging all stakeholders to promote unity and understanding.
“It is disheartening to see their lives cut short by violence and conflict,” they added.
They called on all parties involved to commit to reconciliation, saying, “By encouraging peaceful coexistence, dialogue, and understanding, we can pave the way for healing and reconciliation among all parties involved.”
The protest concluded with an appeal for the community to unite under the values of peace and compassion.
“Let us stand together as a united community, bound by the values of peace, compassion, and respect for all individuals,” the group declared.
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