Trends in Campus Cultism: An Implication for Sustainable Quality Education in Nigeria Tertiary Institutions

Abstract

A critical view of Nigeria as a nation shows that there are several social vices challenging the peaceful existence of the nation in recent times. No facet of the society is left out. The situation in Nigeria tertiary institutions is very worrisome to the students, lecturers, other members of staff and the various school leaderships, and even the society since the school is a microcosm of the larger society. The government is also getting panic of the situation. Tertiary institutions according to law establishing them are supposed to be a tranquil environment for learning and carrying out researches and other academic works, but this could no longer be guaranteed as a result of the menace of cultism and other social vices. It is on this note that this paper succinctly examined some of the known cult groups and their mode of initiations, some of the recent activities of cultism in the tertiary institutions, the effect of these cult activities on the smooth running of educational programmes in tertiary institutions, the reason for cultism on campuses and the sustainability of quality education in the midst of these cult activities. Finally some concrete suggestions that could help wipe out cultism and sustain quality education in the years ahead in tertiary institutions of learning in Nigeria were given.