How to Avoid Cultism on Campus as a Nigerian University Student

How to Avoid Cultism on Campus: Cultism is one of the major threats to safety and personal development in many Nigerian universities. Many students have fallen victim to cult-related violence, lost their lives, or ruined their futures because of involvement in cult groups. While universities are meant to be safe spaces for learning, creativity, and growth, the presence of cult groups makes it necessary for students to be alert, informed, and careful.

This article explains how to avoid cultism and stay safe on campus. This article condemns cultism in strong terms and advises that you avoid it by all means, as it leads to destruction in the end.

What is School Cultism?

School cultism refers to the practice of belonging to a secret group or society within a school, especially in tertiary institutions like universities and colleges. These groups often operate in secrecy, have specific initiation rites, and require their members to show strong loyalty. Cults in schools are usually known for engaging in illegal, violent, or antisocial activities.

They are often involved in drug abuse, physical attacks, bullying, and intimidation. Cultism undermines the peaceful environment needed for learning and personal growth. Cult groups typically adopt secret symbols, code words, or special handshakes. Their members are bound by oaths and are often threatened or punished if they betray the group.

Although some students join cults in the hope of gaining protection, popularity, or a sense of belonging, they usually end up facing serious consequences, both legally and academically. Cultism is a dangerous trap that not only affects the life of the individual but also disrupts the entire school community.

How to Know When You Are Dealing With a Cultist on Campus

Identifying a cultist on campus may not always be easy because many of them act like ordinary students. However, several signs and behaviors can help you recognize someone who may be involved in cultism. Here are some clues that may indicate someone is a cultist:

• Unusual secrecy: They are always secretive about their whereabouts, conversations, and activities, especially at night.
• Late-night movements: They frequently move around campus during odd hours, especially late at night or very early in the morning.
• Aggressive behavior: They may display aggression, a quick temper, and violent tendencies over minor issues.
• Strange tattoos or symbols: They often wear clothes with certain mysterious symbols or have tattoos that represent their cult group.
• Use of coded language: They use unfamiliar slang, terms, or hand signals that only their members understand.
• Frequent unexplained injuries: They sometimes appear with bruises, cuts, or wounds and offer no clear explanation for how they got them.
• Unusual allegiance to a small group: They tend to always be in the company of the same small group of friends and avoid mingling with others.
• Sudden behavior change: If a student suddenly changes in attitude, dressing, or habits, it could be a sign of cult involvement.
• Possession of dangerous weapons: Some cultists carry weapons or dangerous objects for self-defense or intimidation.
• Absence during school crises: During campus unrest, cultists may disappear or behave unusually calmly, as they are often behind the tension.

While not all students who display some of these signs are cultists, noticing a combination of these behaviors can be a strong indication. If you suspect someone is involved in cultism, it is best to stay away from them and report your concerns to school authorities.

How You Can Be Lured Into Cultism

Many students do not plan to join a cult. However, they may be tricked, persuaded, or pressured into joining. Cult groups use different methods to recruit new members, especially fresh or lonely students who are looking for friendship, protection, or excitement. Here are common ways students are lured into cultism:

• False friendship—Cultists may approach you with kindness, pretending to be your friend, only to introduce you gradually to their group.
• Promise of protection—They may tell you that joining them will keep you safe from bullying, harassment, or other cults.
• Influence of peers—If your friends are cult members, they may encourage you to join, making you feel like an outsider if you refuse.
• Desire for power or respect—Cultists may lure you by promising that you will gain power, fame, or respect on campus.
• Material gifts and money—They may offer you money, gifts, free meals, or other things to gain your trust and make you feel indebted to them.
• Invitation to social events—You might be invited to parties or gatherings that seem fun but are actually meant to initiate or recruit you.
• Emotional manipulation—They may use your struggles or weaknesses to manipulate you emotionally and convince you to join.
• False claims about brotherhood—They may convince you that the group is a harmless brotherhood or family that will always stand by you.
• Promise of academic help—Some cultists claim they can help you pass exams or get assistance from lecturers if you join them.
• Intimidation or threats—In some cases, students are forced into cultism through threats, blackmail, or fear of harm.

Knowing these tactics can help you stay alert and avoid falling into the trap of cultism. Always be cautious about people who try too hard to get close to you or invite you to secret meetings or parties.

How to Avoid Cultism on Campus

Avoiding cultism is one of the best decisions you can make during your time in school. It allows you to focus on your studies, build positive relationships, and enjoy a peaceful school experience. Here are some practical tips to help you stay away from cultism:

• Choose your friends wisely – Be careful with the kind of people you associate with. Avoid friends who engage in suspicious or secretive activities.
• Stay focused on your goals – Keep your mind on your studies and personal development. Remember why you are in school.
• Get involved in positive groups—Join religious, academic, or cultural organizations that promote good values and help you grow.
• Avoid late-night outings—Try not to move around campus at night unless it is necessary.
• Say no to peer pressure—Do not allow anyone to pressure you into doing things that go against your values or make you uncomfortable.
• Know your rights— Understand your rights as a student and report any form of harassment or intimidation to school authorities.
• Attend orientation programs—These programs often teach students about the dangers of cultism and how to stay safe.
• Seek help when lonely—If you feel lonely, stressed, or depressed, talk to a counselor, trusted lecturer, or religious leader instead of turning to the wrong crowd.
• Stay informed—Learn about the tactics used by cults to recruit members so you can recognize and avoid them.
• Avoid secret gatherings – Do not attend parties, meetings, or events that are held in secret or in isolated places.

By following these steps, you can protect yourself from cultism and create a safe and successful campus life. Always remember that true success comes from hard work and discipline, not shortcuts or illegal groups.

Disadvantages of Being a Cultist on Campus

Joining a cult may seem attractive at first, but it comes with serious and long-lasting consequences. Many students who join cults end up regretting it deeply. Here are some of the major disadvantages of being a cultist on campus:

• Academic failure—Cultists often miss classes or exams or get suspended or expelled, which leads to poor academic performance or dropout.
• Legal consequences—Cult activities are illegal in many countries, and members may be arrested, jailed, or face other legal actions.
• Risk of violence—Cults often engage in violent clashes with rival groups, putting members at risk of serious injury or death.
• Loss of freedom—Cultists are bound by strict rules and cannot make personal decisions freely. They are often controlled by their leaders.
• Fear and anxiety—Being part of a cult means living in constant fear of betrayal, attack, or punishment from within or outside the group.
• Damaged reputation—Once you are known as a cultist, it can ruin your name, future job opportunities, and relationships.
• Emotional and mental stress—Cult life is full of pressure, guilt, and emotional manipulation, which can lead to depression or trauma.
• Broken family ties—Many cultists lose contact with their families due to shame or disapproval, leading to loneliness and isolation.
• Addiction and substance abuse—Cult members are often involved in drug or alcohol use, which damages their health and judgment.
• Death—Many students have lost their lives during cult clashes, initiation rites, or police operations.

The risks and damages that come with cultism far outweigh any temporary gain. Students who avoid cultism are more likely to achieve their goals and live happy, productive lives.

Conclusion

School cultism is a dangerous and destructive practice that continues to threaten the peace and future of students across campuses. While it may seem like a quick path to power, protection, or popularity, cultism always leads to pain, loss, and regret. Students need to recognize the signs of cultists, avoid being lured, and stay focused on their academic and personal goals.

By choosing the right friends, getting involved in positive activities, and staying informed, students can protect themselves and help create a safe and peaceful school environment. Cultism is never worth the risk. Every student has the power to say no and walk the path of success through hard work, discipline, and the right support system. Check How-To guide for more posts.