Hundreds of Edo women on Tuesday stormed major streets in Benin City to protest the high rate of cult killings in the state.
The women, decked in black attire, called on the Edo State government to intervene, lamenting that the killings had turned most of them into widows.
The women who took their protest to the Edo State House of Assembly warned that the killing of young men in the state would eventually make it difficult for girls to get husbands in future.
One of the protesters, Miss Precious Ikponmwen said the killings have turned women in their 20s and 30s into widows.
According to her, we are tired of the killings. Many young girls are turning into widows in their 20s and 30s. Almost all Edo State households have been affected. It is difficult to train children as a single parent.
“Those fightings are our husbands and brothers, We want government at all levels and security agencies to help us stop these killings”, she appealed.
On her part, Miss Ojo Gloria Eki, who opined that youths are the hope and future of any nation, noted that it was disheartening to witness their lives cut short by violence.
Gloria Eki in a letter co-signed with Precious Omoghan Ikpowonsa posited that the intervention of governments, traditional institutions, and security agencies can help put a stop to the incessant killings of youths in the state.
In the letter titled, “Appeal for Peace and Unity in Edo State, the duo appealed to those in authority to use their position to advocate for an immediate end to the senseless violence and killings.
“We are writing to you with a heavy heart regarding the recent tragic events unfolding in Edo State, specifically the senseless killings of youths that have brought sorrow and despair to our communities.
“As a concerned citizen, we humbly seek your wisdom and guidance in advocating for the restoration of peace and harmony in our beloved state.
“The youths are the hope and future of our nation, and it is disheartening to witness their lives being cut short by violence and conflict.
“As the revered custodian of our cultural heritage and the symbol of unity for the people of Benin, your voice holds great influence in fostering reconciliation and promoting dialogue among all members of our society.
“We appeal to you sir to use your esteemed position to advocate for an immediate end to the senseless violence plaguing our communities.