By Taiwo Ibrahim
Sports Administrator, Baye Osagie has revealed that Sports can end the incessant cult-related killings in Edo State, Sportivationng.com reports.
In recent times, there has been a spate of cultism clashes in Edo State, with scores of people losing their lives.
Three weeks ago, over 20 people died at Tipper Garage in Idogbo area of Upper Sokponba Road after two opposing members of different cult groups clashed.
Similarly, not less than seven people were killed in another clash that happened around Ugbague, Nevis, Road, Dawson, Total in New Benin, Iyaro, Wire Road, Ring Road, and Sapele Road on Monday, which prompted the Governor to declare war on cultism in the state.
Osagie has urged the state government led by Money Okpebholo, and Dennis Idahosa to intensify their efforts in curbing cultism particularly taking advantage of sports to engage the youths.
Osagie told Sportivation Media: “It is really sad that cultism clashes have been happening consistently in Edo State lately, I want to advise the Governor to further intensify the fight against cultism, and also ensure a long-term solution to the menace by keeping the youths busy through sports at a young age.
“We all know how sports can keep the youths busy, and make them take their mind off such criminal activities that can end their lives abruptly, sports is a major tool in combating crime, when plans are put in place to engage the youths from a young age, they will have little time to think about crime.
“If they can be made to make good use of their time through sport, because most times, out of boredom, they join bad gangs, terrorising residents for fun when they don’t have anything meaningful to do with their time.
“It will require a workable plan from the state government that will start from the grassroots, which is the base for talents in every sports, we know how talented Edo youths are, you won’t be surprised that many of those involved in the cult clashes are talented sports people, who have been misled.”
Meanwhile, Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo has ordered the security agencies in the state to fish out criminal elements in the state, and to ensure the state is safe for all.
He said: “The issue of cultism is not acceptable in Edo State. We do not want to lose anybody, and we will be firm about this. We have ordered security agencies to collaborate and ensure that Edo is safe for all, but not safe for criminals.
“We charged them to smoke criminals out of the State wherever they are hiding and ensure that the State is safe for all,”
Baye Osagie is a passionate sports administrator, he obtained a masters degree on International Sports Management in one of the most prestigious Universities in England, Birmingham City University.
He currently works with English Championship side, Stoke City Football Club.
