Eight people killed in an inter-cult clash in Imo State, sparking calls for government intervention and increased security measures.
[dropcap]E[/dropcap]ight people have died in a violent inter-cult clash in Imo State, prompting calls for increased security and intervention from authorities.
In a violent outbreak of conflict, no fewer than eight people have been killed in an inter-cult clash in the Awarra and Ochia communities of the Ohaji/Egbema Local Government Area of Imo State.
Also read: Imo State police arrest five suspected cultists in anti-cult operation
A community leader, speaking on the condition of anonymity, lamented the state government’s failure to provide adequate security amid the ongoing violence.
He reported that among the eight fatalities, five were members of rival cult groups, while three community members suffered fatal collapses upon hearing gunfire. Additionally, one person remains missing after being abducted.
The leader urged both the Nigeria Police and the Imo State Government to intervene, facilitating the return of those who fled to neighbouring communities due to fear of violence.
“Our people have become displaced and taken refuge in churches in neighbouring communities like Assa, Obile, Obosima, and Umuokanne, and they’re dying because they have no food, no access to their homes and farmlands,” he said.
In response to the violence, the communities have established a committee aimed at restoring peace. The leader expressed optimism about the committee’s potential effectiveness in achieving lasting stability.
A youth leader, also speaking anonymously due to security concerns, described the clash as a supremacy battle between rival cult groups vying for control over the proceeds from local oil companies.
He identified the groups as being led by individuals known as Acid and Achis.
Although the youth leader confirmed that at least four people had died in the clashes, he stated that peace had been largely restored following government intervention.
In a statement, Imo State Police Public Relations Officer Henry Okoye acknowledged ongoing complaints regarding attacks by criminal elements in the area.
He emphasized the police’s commitment to restoring peace in Ohaji and highlighted efforts to engage local stakeholders to enhance security measures.
“The police have been doing a lot to restore peace in Ohaji,” Okoye noted. “The Commissioner of Police has engaged in a series of meetings with stakeholders of Ohaji, and we have enhanced security strategy.”
He reassured the public that the security situation had improved since the current police leadership took charge, with several arrests made as part of ongoing efforts to combat the violence.
Source: Read more at thecable.ng
Quadri Olaitan is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, public affairs, and human-interest stories.
