| Abstract: |
This study investigated the socio-economic and cultural determinants of cult
membership among students of Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku, and
examined the implication of strategic communication in addressing the problem.
The study was guided by Social Learning Theory and Stakeholder Theory. A survey
research design was adopted. From a population of 8,200 students, a sample of 383
was drawn using the Taro Yamane formula. Structured questionnaires were used for
data collection, and 345 copies were valid and used for analysis through frequency
counts and simple percentages. Findings revealed that financial hardship, peer
pressure, fear of unemployment, and family background are key socio-economic
factors that predispose students to cult membership. Culturally, the desire for social
recognition, need for protection and security, and a campus culture of violence and
intimidation encourage cult recruitment and retention. Traditional beliefs and
rituals had minimal influence. The study further found that existing institutional
communication efforts such as awareness campaigns, seminars, posters, and
sanctions are irregular and ineffective. Stakeholder involvement in anti-cult
activities is also moderate and uneven, with religious organizations and security agencies more active than parents and student unions. The study concludes that
addressing cultism requires sustained strategic communication campaigns,
improved counselling and welfare services, and stronger collaboration among
parents, security agencies, religious bodies, student unions, and community
leaders. It also recommends greater use of digital and social media platforms for
anti-cult communication in polytechnics. |
