Cultism and its Implication on Development: A Case Study of Rivers State from 2003-2019

Abstract

This work examines the implication of cult activities on the development of Rivers State. The origin of cultism was traced to the cult activities in the various Universities in Nigeria. These cult groups subsequently initiated people who were not students. The politicians who have the unquenchable desires to win election through unconstitutional means sponsored these cult groups to unleash Mayhem as well as to kill political opponents. The proliferation of cultism and its implication on development in Rivers State was located within the context of Marxism conflict analysis, it was argued that the political class at the helms of affairs exercised their authority to maintain their selfish and parochial interest by sponsoring cult groups to eliminate political opponent. After some time, this culminated into multiple crises that have claimed the lives of so many innocent people. The incessant cult clashes and the problems associated with it (Kidnapping, killing, burning of houses etc.) hampered the growth and expansion of business in the state. Again more youths are running away from school because cultism offers quick money. Generally speaking, this has actually affected the development of the state. It was also found out that there is a correlation between cultism and acquisition of wealth. There is also a significant relationship between cultism and political patronage/appointment. It was also discovered that the more the cult activities, the higher the death rate and destruction of economic activities in the state. So many foreign companies and investors relocated to other states in the federation that are more peaceful. It was therefore recommended that the government should deal decisively on any culprit according to the law without any preference. It was also recommended that the parents should train their children in accordance with the biblical standard.

Keywords:  Cultism, Development, Proliferation of arms, the political leaders, violence crimes.