The Abia State government has expressed concern at the bold, provocative attempt by some youths in the commercial town of Aba to ignite terror and violence through cult-related activities and killings.

Special Adviser to the Abia State governor on Media and Publicity, Ferdinand Ekeoma, made the disclosure on Wednesday in a statement to journalists in Umuahia.

Mr Ekeoma recalled that Governor Alex Oti on assumption of office, acted swiftly to nip the activities of cultists by clamping down on them in different parts of the state.

He said through that measure the government succeeded in restoring peace and security in various parts of the state.

Mr Ekeoma said the recent attempt by some criminals to foment trouble in Aba through cultism was a daring provocation, and an affront on the people and government of Abia.

He said, “Government strongly condemns these lawless and criminal activities, and wishes to state that the Abia government has zero tolerance for cultism and other acts of criminality. Government shall descend with full force of the law on any person, persons or groups found indulging in any form of cultism and cult related activities in any part of Abia.’’

Mr Ekeoma said that the government had deployed security agents and intelligence officers to streets, schools, neighbourhoods and other public places of gathering.

He noted that the intention of the deployment was to smoke out cultists and other criminals inciting fear and terror in some parts of the state.

Mr Ekeoma said that while the government strived to empower the unemployed youths in the state through impactful programmes, those who chose the part of terrorism would face the law.

He stated “Parents and guardians are, therefore, strongly advised to call their children and wards to order, and discourage them from this path of destruction called cultism. Those caught would be made to suffer severe consequences, according to the law. Citizens are by this release enjoined to go about their legitimate business as government is determined to ensure their protection at all times.’’

Mr Ekeoma advised members of the public to report any person or persons involved in any form of cult-related activities to the government for disciplinary actions.

He urged residents to report any cultist, group of cultists or any facility that harbours cultists and other criminals in any part of the state.

Mr Ekeoma enjoined residents to call or send messages to the Abia State Command Control Number: 0803 541 5405 and Operation Crush Emergency numbers: 09091141111.