What is Cultism? Definition, Causes, and Solutions Explained

What is Cultism? Definition, Causes, and Solutions Explained

You have probably heard the rumors. Maybe a senior student warned you not to wear a certain color of beret, or you saw a strange gathering behind the school hostel at night. The topic of what is cultism is not just for passing Civic Education exams; it is for your survival in the Nigerian school system.

Let’s be honest. This issue is a serious “wahala” in our society. It destroys bright futures every day. But do not fear. I am here to break it down for you, from how it started to how you can avoid it. Open your note. Let’s write.

Table of Contents

Meaning of Cultism

Cultism is a secret society or group of people who share peculiar beliefs and engage in rituals that are usually kept secret from the public. Their activities are often nocturnal (happening at night) and violent.

Think of it like a “coven” of witches in Nollywood movies. They meet in the dark, they take oaths, and they hide their faces. Unlike the Press Club or the Football Team where everything is open, a cult group operates in the shadows. If a group tells you, “Don’t tell your mummy or daddy what we do here,” run away. That is a cult.

History of Cultism in Nigeria

Cultism in Nigeria started in 1952 at the University College, Ibadan (now the University of Ibadan). It was formed by a group of seven students led by the Nobel Laureate, Wole Soyinka.

They called themselves the Pyrates Confraternity (or Sea Dogs). But here is the twist. They did not start it to kill people or cause trouble. No. They started it to fight against colonialism, tribalism, and the elitist behavior of some students. They were the “good guys” back then. However, as time went on, internal fights happened. Members broke away to form new groups like the Buccaneers and Eiye Confraternity. The values changed. They entered the bush. They started carrying guns instead of books. You can read more about this history on Wikipedia.

Characteristics of Cultism

How do you know a group is a cult? There are specific signs you will see.

Secret Initiation: New members are often forced to take blood oaths or undergo torture to prove they are “rugged.”
Nocturnal Meetings: They almost always meet at night or in isolated places (bushes, uncompleted buildings).
Use of Symbols and Colors: Each group has a specific color (like Yellow, Black, or Red) and symbols (like skulls, axes, or crossbones).
Violence: They use intimidation and weapons to get what they want.

Reasons for Joining Cultism

Why would a normal student decide to join a group that kills? It doesn’t make sense, right? But here are the reasons students give:

Peer Pressure: This is the “Follow-Follow” mentality. Your friend is doing it, so you want to do it too. If your friend jumps into a well, will you jump?
Search for Security: Some students are bullied and think joining a cult will give them protection. This is a lie. It is like using an umbrella to stop a moving trailer. It won’t save you; it will crush you.
Desire for Power: Some want to feel like the “King of Boys” on campus. They want lecturers and students to fear them.
Family Background: Sadly, some students join because their parents were members.

Consequences of Cultism

The result of cultism is never enjoyment. It is always tears and sorrow.

Premature Death: Many cultists die young during clashes with rival groups.
Expulsion (Rustication): If the school authority catches you, you are gone. It is like receiving a Red Card in a football match. You are out of the game permanently. Your years of study are wasted.
Mental Health Issues: The things cultists are forced to do (like violence or drug abuse) often lead to madness or severe trauma.
Disruption of Academic Calendar: When cults fight, the school closes down. Everyone suffers.

Preventive Measures Against Cultism

How do we stop this fire? It requires effort from everyone.

Parental Monitoring: Parents need to watch the friends their children keep.
Public Enlightenment: Schools must teach students about the dangers of these groups, just like I am doing now. The National Orientation Agency often runs campaigns on this.
Strict Laws: The government must punish those caught without mercy to serve as a lesson to others.
Sports and Recreation: An idle hand is the devil’s workshop. If students are busy with football or drama, they won’t have time for cult meetings.

The “Godfather” Factor

Note: This is the “Extra Marks” section. Mentioning this shows you understand the real-world politics of cultism.

One big reason cultism is hard to stop is the involvement of “Godfathers.” These are rich politicians or alumni who fund these groups to use them as thugs during elections. They buy guns for the students. But guess what? After the election, the politician flies his own children abroad to study in safety, leaving the cultist to die in the street. Do not be a tool for anyone.

Conclusion

Cultism is a trap. It looks flashy from the outside, but inside, it is a prison.

Remember the popular saying: “Show me your friend, and I will tell you who you are.” Choose your friends wisely. Focus on your books. That is the only way to make it in life.

No shaking. You will pass this exam. Good luck!