By Emmanuel Sixtus
In a sad turn of events, eight people lost their lives during a violent fight between cult groups in the Nibo community of Anambra State. This tragic incident happened during the Onwa Asaa festival, a time usually filled with joy and togetherness. Instead of celebrating, people were forced to run for safety as gunfire erupted on a Sunday afternoon.
The recent cult killings followed a series of killings that happened in the capital city of the state. In Mbaukwu specifically, three people were gunned down last month, and the recent killing is believed to be a retaliation.
Witnesses said that the victims of the cult killing were not members of any cult group, that they fell victim of the act because they were in the same location a particular member was targeted.
The rival cult group stormed the town while people were in different bars enjoying their afternoon, and masquerades entertaining them.
Different bars were filled with people while the busy road had onlookers watching the display of different masquerades, the gun men stormed a bar where seven people were gunned down mercilessly. Another person was killed at Eke market of the town.
The cult rivals involved in the killings are Vikings and BMA, popularly known as Aye. The killings are founded on endless retaliations between the two cult groups.
The killings are proving quite hard for the community and security agents to end, with the gunmen said to be imported by the cults, and cannot be identified by the people.
The Anambra State Police confirmed the incident. SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the Police Public Relations Officer, spoke to the media about what happened. He mentioned that the police are aware of the cult-related clash that took place on October 20, 2024, in Nibo. This violence not only took lives but also ruined what was supposed to be a happy celebration, highlighting the ongoing issue of cult violence in the area.
In response to the situation, the State Commissioner of Police, CP Nnaghe Obono Itam, has ordered more police officers to be sent to the area. This is to help restore peace and ensure the safety of residents after the violence. The police are dedicated to managing the situation and are actively gathering information to identify and catch those responsible for this terrible act.
Ikenga pointed out that initial reports about the incident are unclear, emphasizing the need for the community to help with the investigation. The police are asking anyone who saw anything or has information to come forward, assuring that any details shared will be kept confidential.
To make reporting easier, the police have set up a special phone line for the public to share information. Residents who have useful details are encouraged to call the Command Control Room at 07039194332 or contact the Police Public Relations Officer directly at 08039334002. This effort aims to encourage collaboration between the police and the community to fight against cultism and make the area safer.
The unfortunate events in Nibo reflect a larger problem of insecurity caused by cult-related violence, which affects many communities in Nigeria. Authorities are working hard to tackle the root causes and prevent future incidents. However, the ongoing violence remains a significant challenge, requiring cooperation from law enforcement, community leaders, and residents alike.
As the investigation continues, the Nibo community mourns its losses and deals with the aftermath of the violence. The Onwa Asaa festival, meant for celebration, has been overshadowed by sadness and fear. The hope is that with more police presence and community support, peace can be restored, and measures can be taken to prevent such tragedies from happening again.
In conclusion, the recent clashes in Nibo serve as a serious reminder of the need for vigilance and cooperation in addressing the problems caused by cultism and violence. As the police work to find the truth and bring those responsible to justice, the community’s strength will be essential in overcoming this difficult time and reclaiming their right to celebrate peacefully.
