How two Nigerian universities successfully eradicated campus cultism

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Cultism in Nigerian universities has long been a plague, disrupting academic pursuits and endangering lives. Yet, two institutions—the University of Ibadan (UI) and Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)—stand out for their ability to eradicate this menace. These campuses now serve as safe havens for learning, devoid of cult-related violence and intimidation. Their success stems from a history of decisive actions that reshaped campus life, leaving students to enjoy the freedom and security these institutions now offer.

To understand this achievement, it is essential to revisit the origins of cultism in Nigerian universities. Cultism began with noble intentions. In 1952, Wole Soyinka and six others founded the Pyrates Confraternity at the University of Ibadan. Their mission was to challenge oppression and fight for social justice in a colonial environment. However, over the decades, other groups emerged with radically different objectives. These new confraternities became associated with violence, intimidation, and criminal activities. By the 1990s, the problem had spiraled out of control, affecting universities nationwide, including UI and OAU. This dire situation set the stage for a much-needed turning point in their history.

One of the most critical turning points occurred at OAU, where a tragic event became the catalyst for sweeping reforms. On July 10, 1999, cultists launched a brutal attack on campus, killing five students, including George Iwilade, known as Afrika, a vocal leader of the Students’ Union. Afrika had been a staunch opponent of cultism, rallying students to resist these groups’ terror. His death was a watershed moment, sparking outrage across the university community. In response, the administration, students, and alumni united to eradicate cultism from the campus. They introduced heightened surveillance, swift expulsions for anyone linked to cult activities, and a legacy of student-led awareness campaigns. Today, OAU stands as a testament to how a tragedy can inspire collective action and lasting change.

Similarly, the University of Ibadan took proactive steps to ensure its campus remained a safe haven for learning. As someone who spent six years at UI, I can attest to the institution’s success in fostering a secure and peaceful environment. I recall walking across campus at 1 a.m., wearing whatever I liked, and dating whoever I wanted—without fear of harassment or intimidation. This sense of security stemmed from deliberate policies and a student body committed to academic excellence. The absence of cultism at UI was no accident; it was the result of a sustained effort to create a safe and welcoming environment for all.

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Several factors contribute to the eradication of cultism at UI and OAU, and these factors underscore their shared commitment to safety and excellence. First and foremost, the rigorous admissions process ensures that only the most dedicated students are admitted. These students, focused on academic and personal growth, are less likely to engage in cult-related activities. Furthermore, both universities enforce strict zero-tolerance policies. At UI, any student caught engaging in cultism faces immediate expulsion. Similarly, OAU imposes severe penalties to deter cultism, leaving no room for compromise. These measures send a clear message: cultism has no place on these campuses.

Beyond policies, the implementation of innovative strategies has been instrumental. At UI, a dedicated team works to prevent cultism, bullying, and harassment, as highlighted on the university’s website. Their efforts are complemented by initiatives that encourage students to report suspicious activities safely. Meanwhile, OAU has fostered a tradition known as “Maximum Shishi,” where students collectively confront and discourage misconduct. This strong culture of peer accountability and vigilance ensures that any attempts to disrupt the peace are swiftly addressed. Together, these approaches create an environment where mutual responsibility thrives, deterring cult-related behavior effectively.

The perspectives of current and former students further illustrate the success of these measures. A third-year student at UI expressed their confidence in the campus’s safety, noting, “There’s no fear of someone lurking in the shadows trying to intimidate me.” Similarly, an OAU student remarked, “The absence of cultism here allows us to focus on our studies and enjoy life on campus without fear.” Such testimonies are echoed across online forums and social media, where students consistently praise the freedom and security they experience. This collective sentiment reflects the critical role of institutional policies and a dedicated community in maintaining peace.

In conclusion, the success stories of UI and OAU demonstrate that eradicating cultism is not only possible but achievable through collective effort, strict policies, and a culture that prioritizes academic and personal freedom. Other universities in Nigeria can learn valuable lessons from these institutions to restore safety and integrity on their campuses. By standing as beacons of hope, UI and OAU remind us that safe and thriving academic environments are attainable when students, staff, and administrators unite to uphold the values of education and peace.