CIVIC EDUCATION

THEME – CULTISM 

CLASS – SENIOR SECONDARY SCHOOLS (SS 1) 

 

TOPIC – CULTISM 

LEARNING AREA

1. Meaning of Cultism

2. Different Cult Groups in Nigeria Schools

3. Origin and Reasons for Establishing and Joining Cult

4. Consequences of Cult

5. Preventive Measures Against Cultism

 

INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS

1. Textbook

2. Photographs

3. News paper/magazine cuttings

4. Video clips

5. Resource persons

 

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

By the end of the lesson, students should be able to:

1. define and explain the meaning of cultism.

2. identify the different cult groups and their symbols.

3. state the origin and reasons for cult groups.

4. explain the consequences of cultism.

5. discuss the preventive measures against cultism.

 

CONTENTS OF THE LESSON

INTRODUCTION

Cultism is the association of people whose membership and activities are done secretly. Cultism is also known as secret cult. The members are committed to their oath and allegiance as strong belief and faith in one another.

Joining a cult can have serious and long-lasting consequences for individuals, impacting their personal relationships, financial stability, emotional well-being, and even their physical safety. It is important for individuals to be aware of the potential risks associated with involvement in a cult and to seek help if they are concerned about their own or someone else’s involvement.

 

DIFFERENT CULT GROUPS IN NIGERIAN SCHOOLS

Cultism in Nigerian schools is a serious issue that has been prevalent for many years. Cultism poses a serious threat to the safety, well-being, and academic environment of schools in Nigeria. Various cult groups exist in Nigerian schools, particularly in universities and sometimes in secondary schools. Some of the major cult groups in Nigerian schools include:

1. The Buccaneers Confraternity (The National Association of Sea Lords) – This cult group was formed in 1972 at the University of Ibadan and is one of the oldest cult groups in Nigeria. The Buccaneers are known for their violent and criminal activities.

2. The Black Axe Confraternity (The Neo-Black Movement of Africa) – The Black Axe is another notorious cult group in Nigeria that is involved in violence, killings, and other criminal activities. It was founded at the University of Benin in the 1970s.

3. The Supreme Eiye Confraternity (The National Association of Air Lords) – Also known as the Eiye Confraternity, this cult group was formed in the 1980s and is known for its violent clashes with rival cult groups.

4. The Vikings Confraternity (The National Association of Adventurers or the Norsemen Club) – The Vikings is a cult group that originated at the University of Port Harcourt and is known for its brutality and criminal activities.

5. The Kegites Club (The Palm Wine Drinkards) – Unlike the violent cult groups mentioned above, the Kegites Club is a non-violent and non-secretive group that promotes fellowship, socialization, and cultural activities.

6. Kinsmen Confraternity (KKK) – This cult is known as external fraternity order of the region consortium. It is founded by the students, the University ofcalabar, it’s know also as (KKK) being it’s symbol.

7. Two – Two or Black Bare (The Brotherhood of the Blood) – It is also known as the brotherhood of the blood, it was founded at Enugu State University of Science and Technology.

8. Black Bra Confraternity (Axe Queens) – The group is one of the oldest female cult groups in Nigeria. Black Bra members wear black from head to toe. The group’s symbol is a black bra.

9. Daughters of Jezebel – The Daughters of Jezebel is among the most popular female confraternity in Nigeria. Members communicate in a coded language. However, little is known about this group because their activities are top secret.

10. Other men confraternities in Nigeria are Thu-Thu, Red Sea, Mgbamgba Brothers, Black Cat, The Fame, Snow Men, Fraternity of Friends, Black Cobra of Ife, Canary, Green Berrets, The Blood Spot, Scorpion, etc.

11. The Ladies are not left out when you talk about confraternities in Nigeria. So not neglecting them, below is a list of the top female confraternities – Black Berets, Woman Brassier (brave), Pink Lady, Amazons, White Angels, Lady of Rose, Sisterhood of Darkness, Golden Daughters, The Ten wonderful Girls, White Ladies, The Royal Queens, Daughters of the Knight, The Knights of the Aristos, etc.

 

ORIGIN AND REASONS FOR ESTABLISHING AND JOINING CULT

The formation of secret societies is not a recent development in the annals of Nigeria history. In the world history, there were secret cults that had existed and operated in Egypt, Greece and Rome and other parts of the world. Also, there was historical evidence that there were secret societies in Africa before even the advent of colonialism.

What is common to all cult groups are oath of secrecy, clandestine activities and desperate pursuit of goals and unlawful possession of dangerous weapons.

Coming to Nigeria, history traced the origin of cultism in tertiary institution to 1952 at the then university college lbadan when seven students acted as the pioneers.

The story of how pyrate confraternity was formed at the University College Ibadan now university of Ibadan was confirmed by Prof. Muyiwa Awe, one of the seven pioneers of pyrate confraternity in The Punch Newspaper of Monday, 17th May, 2004 (P16).

As a matter of fact, pyrate confraternity which was pioneered and promoted by Wole Soyinka, Ralph Opara, Olumuyiwa Awe, Ikphere Aig Imonkuede, Pius Olegbe, Nathaniel Oyelola and Ifagbale Amater was known for intellectual approach to issues rather than violence.

The pyrates of Wole Soyinka’s days at The University of Ibadan were deeply involved in nationalist struggle. Indeed, the aim of pyrate at the initial stage was to fight imperialism, foster justice and to preserve Africa customs and traditions.

Shortly after independence, student confraternity become derailed from the original path of fighting against oppression, exploitation and social injustice.

Surprisingly, what started as intellectual platform eventually become known and associated with violence and members were deeply involved in drunkenness, excessive smoking, brutality, drug abuse, maiming, rape and killing of innocent students. No responsible person will love to be associated with cultists because of the dangers inherent in cultism.

Besides, Eiye confraternity also started as a mere friendship group at Nnamdi Azikwe Hall of the University of Ibadan in 1965 and the group transformed to Eiye confraternity after the founding members had graduated in 1972.

As time went on, more groups began to spring up and the development eventually led to bitter rivalry among student confraternities. Of course, this is the beginning of cult classes, maiming and killings in tertiary institution campuses. With the proliferation of cult groups, a lot of bad characters are being recruited and the objectives are no longer noble.

The battle for supremacy among the cult groups and desire to dominate each other are part of reasons why dangerous weapons are employed to settle scores by the cult groups. Some of the weapons used by the cult groups include gun, axe, bottles, knives, cutlasses, juju, rituals etc.

There is also a widely held belief that cult members are children of the elite or high ranking personalities. They normally have sponsors in government circle and among top politicians.

Reference – Cultism in Nigeria

 

REASONS FOR JOINING AND ESTABLISHING CULTIS

The reasons for joining or establishing a cult can vary greatly depending on the individual and the specific circumstances involved such as –

1. Desire for Power and Control – Cult leaders often seek to exert power and control over their followers, and may be attracted to the idea of creating a group of devoted followers who will do their bidding.

2. Feeling of Belonging and Community – Cults often provide a sense of belonging and community for individuals who may feel isolated or disconnected from mainstream society.

3. Spiritual Fulfillment – Some individuals may be drawn to cults for spiritual reasons, seeking a deeper connection to a higher power or spiritual truth.

4. Search for Meaning and Purpose – Cults may offer a sense of purpose and direction to individuals who are searching for meaning in their lives.

5. Manipulation and Coercion – Some cults use manipulation and coercion to recruit and retain members, preying on vulnerable individuals who may be seeking guidance or support.

6. Personal Gain – Cult leaders may be motivated by personal gain, seeking to exploit their followers for financial or personal benefits.

7. Psychological Vulnerability – Individuals who are going through difficult times or facing personal challenges may be more susceptible to the tactics used by cults to recruit and retain members.

8. Other includes – Protection, Revenge, Low self-esteem, Peer influence, etc.

 

CONSEQUENCES OF CULT

There are a number of potential consequences that individuals may face as a result of joining a cult. Some of these consequences may include:

1. Isolation from Friends and Family – Cults often use tactics to isolate their members from outside influences, including friends and family. This can result in a breakdown of relationships and a lack of support from loved ones.

2. Loss of Personal Autonomy – Cult members may be required to give up their personal autonomy and adhere to strict rules and regulations set by the cult leader. This can result in a loss of individuality and independence.

3. Financial Exploitation – Some cults require members to make financial contributions or donations, which can lead to financial exploitation and instability for individuals who may already be vulnerable.

4. Emotional and Psychological Harm – Cults often use psychological manipulation and coercion to control their members, which can result in emotional and psychological harm. This may include anxiety, depression, and trauma.

5. Physical Harm – In some cases, cult members may be subjected to physical harm or abuse by cult leaders or other members. This can have serious consequences for the health and well-being of individuals involved.

6. Legal Consequences – In some cases, cult activities may be illegal or involve criminal behavior. Individuals who are involved in cults may face legal consequences as a result of their participation in illegal activities.

7. Expulsion from School, Violence, Murder, Death, Spiritual problems, Mental disorder, Temporary and permanent injuries, etc.

 

PREVENTIVE MEASURES AGAINST CULTISM

Preventing individuals from getting involved in cults involves education, awareness, and understanding. Here are some preventive measures against cultism:

1. Education and Awareness – Educating individuals about the tactics and characteristics of cults can help prevent them from becoming involved. Teaching critical thinking skills and promoting skepticism can also help individuals resist manipulation by cult leaders.

2. Encouraging Open Communication – Encouraging open communication within families, schools, and communities can help individuals feel comfortable sharing their concerns or experiences with potentially harmful groups. Having open conversations about the dangers of cults can help raise awareness and prevent recruitment.

3. Building Self-esteem and Self-confidence – Individuals with low self-esteem or a lack of self-confidence may be more vulnerable to manipulation by cults. Building self-esteem, self-confidence, and strong personal values can help individuals resist the influence of cults.

4. Promoting Healthy Relationships – Cults often prey on individuals who are seeking a sense of belonging or purpose. Encouraging healthy relationships with family, friends, and community members can help individuals feel supported and connected, reducing the likelihood of seeking belonging in potentially harmful groups.

5. Teaching Critical Thinking Skills – Teaching individuals how to critically evaluate information, think rationally, and make informed decisions can help them resist manipulation by cults. Encouraging individuals to question authority and seek multiple perspectives can help them recognize and avoid potentially harmful groups.

6. Seeking Professional Help – If an individual is already involved in a cult or is showing signs of susceptibility to cult recruitment, seeking professional help from a therapist, counselor, or intervention specialist can be beneficial. These professionals can provide support, guidance, and resources to help individuals safely disengage from cults and address any underlying vulnerabilities.

7. Abiding in rules and regulation, Studying hard in school, Faith in God as protector and provider, etc.

By implementing these preventive measures and raising awareness about the dangers of cultism, individuals can protect themselves and others from becoming involved in harmful and manipulative groups.

 

LESSON PRESENTATION

TEACHER’S ACTIVITIES

The teacher,

1. defines and explains cultism.

2. lists the different cult groups and their symbols.

3. explains the origin and reasons for cultism.

4. analyzes the consequences of cultism.

5. leads students on ways to prevent cultism.

 

STUDENT’S ACTIVITIES

The students,

1. define and explains cultism.

2. name the different cult groups and their symbols.

3. state the origin and reasons for cultism.

4. mention the consequences of cultism.

5. discuss ways of preventing cultism.

 

LESSON EVALUATION

Teacher asks students to,

1. define and explain cultism

2. list the different cult groups and their symbols.

3. state the origin and reasons for cultism.

4. enumerate the consequences of cultism.

5. discuss how they will prevent cultism.