The Rise of Female Cultism in Delta State Secondary Schools

The pervasive menace of cultism, long a scourge in Nigerian universities, has now insidiously infiltrated the corridors of secondary schools, presenting a deeply troubling new dimension to this hydra-headed problem. This investigative piece shines a stark light on the alarming emergence and proliferation of female cult groups within Delta State's secondary school system. What was once considered a male-dominated domain has now seen young girls drawn into dangerous affiliations, leading to harrowing experiences of intimidation, assault, and psychological distress.

“

The last time she told them she was leaving, they threatened to deal with her. What she did not expect them to do, was to wait at the gate of her school after school hours, to attack her in broad day light.

The article vividly recounts the harrowing experiences of Akudo, Dumebi, and Millicent, illustrating the brutal reality faced by these young students. Fifteen-year-old Akudo, a member of the 'Vipers,' a female arm of a gang dominant in Asaba, faced threats and a violent assault for attempting to leave the group. Thirteen-year-old Dumebi received a chilling threat and was subsequently waylaid and beaten by seven girls, forcing her to seek police intervention. Millicent, a former 'Queen' of the 'F-Tibi' (Future Tibi) group, exhibits a disturbing confidence, perhaps born from a perceived ability to outsmart authorities, even as she claims to have renounced her membership.

“

It was a threat. She jolted from her seat, and headed straight to the school Counsellor’s office. She’s only 13 years old, and doesn’t know how to handle this sort of matter.

These narratives underscore the urgent need for comprehensive intervention strategies. The psychological toll on these young victims is immense, as they navigate fear, trauma, and the complex social dynamics within their schools. The article implicitly calls for a multi-faceted approach involving educators, parents, law enforcement, and community stakeholders to dismantle these networks, provide support for victims, and prevent further recruitment. Addressing the root causes that drive young girls towards such dangerous affiliations is paramount to stemming this rising tide of female cultism in Delta State.

“

It was a message from a gang, who saw themselves as ‘cultists’. Their name, Red Devil Girls, evokes fear. She had been marked.